(LIBRARY OF CONGRESS.} 



|ta£ |opnngW |o. 

? fS^A. | 



J7/U/ .JBILML^ }| 



UNITED STATES OP 



Si 




THE FIVE HEROINES OF THE ORDER. 



RITUAL 

OF THE 

Order of the Eastern Star. 

A BOOK OF INSTRUCTION 

FOB THE 

ORGANIZATION, GOVERMEFT AND CEEMOJHES 

OF 

CHAPTERS 

OF THE ORDER 
IX EVERY DEPARTMENT. 

BT 

EOBEET ilACOY, 

PAST GBAND PATBON GBAND CHAFTEB OF NEW TOBK. 



A v ILLUSTRATED. 

I S 

NEW YORK : 

ROBERT MACOT, PUBLISHER, 

4 Barclay Street. 

1876. 



7T 










Copyrighted by 

ROBERT MACOY, 

1876. 



PREFACE. 



HAVING been engaged for a number of years in 
disseminating the beautiful Order of the East- 
ern Star, and believing that the system is fast becom- 
ing deeply rooted in the affections of the Masonic 
Craft and their female relatives, and the belief pre- 
vails that the time is not far distant when this sys- 
tem of the Adoptive Rite will receive Masonic official 
recognition, and meet with general acceptance, even 
where it is now neglected or proscribed. These, and 
other good reasons, have been the inducements for 
producing this volume upon the plan now offered. 

The want of some systematic organization has been 
the leading cause of retarding its general usefulness for 
many years, and it may be set down as an axiom, that 
no degree, however remotely connected with any in- 
stitution, can take a high place among us, unless it 
possess a well-conceived and philosophic basis of 
ceremonial, symbolism, and constitutional regulation. 
Without these it is subject to constant changes from 
a multiplicity of minds, which tend to destroy its 
universality, and give its opponents just grounds for 
their cavilings. The history of all the Masonic de- 
grees (above the first three) proves this. The degrees 



of the Chapter, Council, and Commandery were never 
prized until, in the last generation, they were thus 
wrought out, framed together, and perfectly systema- 
tized. Their opponents have now become their warm- 
est advocates, and they stand upon an immutable 
foundation. 

Believing that there are equal grounds of stability 
in the system of the Order of the Eastern Star, the 
present Ritual is presented. In this pleasant labor I 
have had the counsel of the highest intellects of the 
Adoptive System, to whom I cheerfully acknowledge 
my obligations and offer my hearty thanks. Brother 
Robert Morris, whose labors in connection with this 
subject are well known, has given his unqualified 
approbation of the present plan. I have every reason 
to believe that, in the completion of this work, 
nothing has been left undone that will conduce to the 
permanency, prosperity, and extended usefulness of 
the Order of the Eastern Star. 

ROBERT MACOY. 




CONTENTS. 



PAGE. 

Preface. 5 

Historical Sketch 9 

Objects of the Rite 14 

Directions, etc 16 

Form of Petition 16 

Indorsement 17 

Title of the Body 17 

Officers of a Chapter 18 

Stations of Officers 18 

Jewels and Regalia 21 

Colors of the Degrees 22 

Scarf of the Worthy Matron 22 

Scarf of the Order 23 

Membership 23 

Petition of a Lady 24 

Petition of a Master Mason 24 

Form of Petition with Dimit 25 

Membership of a Sister 26 

Membership of a Brother 26 

Active Membership 27 

Powers and Authority of a Chapter 27 

Landmarks of the Order 27 

Preliminaries to Opening a Chapter 29 

Quorum for Business 30 

Articles necessary for a Chapter 30 

Ballot Box 30 

Opening Ceremonies 31 

Closing Ceremonies 42 



PAGE. 

Initiation 44 

Lecture to the Candidate 80 

Initiation of a Master Mason 86 

Opening Odes 92 

Closing Odes 96 

Inauguration Odes 99 

Initiation Odes 100 

Burial Hymns 100 

Elections 104 

Installation of Officers 105 

Installation of Grand Officers 122 

Burial Service. 




ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR, 

UNDER THE SYSTEM OF THE ADOPTIVE RITE. 



HISTORICAL, SKETCH. 

Okgahizaticws bearing an imperfect resem- 
blance to Freemasonry in its forms and ceremonies, for the 
admission of females as members, were first established 
in France, abont the year 1730. To the organizations 
thus established for the initiation of females, the French 
gave the name of " Adoptive Masonry," or, Magonnerie 
d' Adoption, and the Lodges are called Loges d' Adop- 
tion, or "Adoptive Lodges," because every Lodge of 
females was obliged to be adopted by, and under the 
guardianship of, some regular Masonic Lodge. 

By the term Adoptive Masonry (or Rite) is implied 
that system of forms, ceremonies, and explanatory lec- 
tures which is communicated to certain classes of ladies, 
who, from their relationship by blood or marriage to 
Master Masons in good standing, are entitled to the re- 
spect and attention of the entire Fraternity. 
1* 



10 ORDER, OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

The ladies are said to have been adopted into the Ma- 
sonic communion, because the system of forms, ceremo- 
nies and lectures above referred to enabled them to 
express their wishes and give satisfactory evidence of 
their claims, in a manner that no stranger to the Masonic 
family could. 

The Masonry of Adoption did not at once, and in its 
beginning, assume that peculiarly imitative form of 
Freemasonry which it subsequently presented, nor was it 
recognized as having any connection with the Masonic 
Order, until more than thirty years after its first intro- 
duction. Its progress there, like its efforts here, was 
slow and gradual. 

One of the earliest of these societies was established 
in 1743, at Paris, under the title of the " Ordre des 
Felicitaires" which we may translate the " Order of Per- 
fect Happiness." This society assumed a nautical char- 
acter in its emblems and its vocabulary. The sisters 
made, symbolically, a voyage to the island of Felicity, 
in ships navigated by the brethren. 

It was divided into the four degrees of Cabin -Boy, 
Captain, Commodore, and Vice -Admiral, and the Grand 
Master, or presiding officer, was called the Admiral. 
What little information we have been enabled to obtain 
from a very brief notice of its ritual, leads us to believe 
that it was not of a character to merit countenance. It 
did not long retain its existence ; for, two years after 
its formation, it gave place to the " Knights and Ladies 
of the Anchor," which was a refinement of the original 
society and preserved its formula of initiation, and the 
best of its ceremonies. 

In 1747, a new society was instituted, called "L' Ordre 
des Fendeurs;" or, the Order of Wood-cutters. It bor- 



HISTORICAL SKETCH. ]_]_ 

rowed its principal ceremonies from the society of the 
Carbonari, or Coal-burners, which had been previously 
established in Italy. The place of meeting of the Wood- 
cutters was called the " Wood-yard," and was supposed 
to represent a forest ; the presiding officer was called 
"Father Master," and the male and female members 
were styled "Cousins." This society became at once 
exceedingly popular, and the most distinguished ladies 
and gentlemen of France united themselves to it, and 
membership was considered an honor which no rank, 
however exalted, Deed disdain. It was, consequently, 
the cause of the institution of many similar androgynous 
societies, such as the Order of the Hatchet, of Fidelity, 
La Belle et Bonne, etc. 

In consequence of the increasing popularity of the 
numerous secret associations, which, in their external 
characters and mysterious rites attempted an imitation 
of Freemasonry, differing, however, from that institu- 
tion, of which they were, perhaps, the rivals for public 
favor by the admission of female members, the Grand 
Orient of France, in 1774, established a new rite, called 
the " Rite of Adoption," which was placed under the 
control of the Grand Orient. Rules and regulations were 
provided for the government of these Lodges of Adop- 
tion, one of which was that no men should be permitted 
to attend them except regular Freemasons, and that 
each Lodge should be placed under the charge, and held 
under the sanction and warrant, of some regularly-con- 
stituted Masonic Lodge, whose Master, or, in his absence, 
his Deputy, should be the presiding officer, assisted by a 
female President or Mistress. Under these regulations 
a Lodge of Adoption was opened at Paris, in May, 1775, 
under the patronage of the Lodge of St. Anloine, in 



12 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

which the Duchess of Bourbon presided and was installed 
as Grand Mistress of the Adoptive Rite. The Rite of 
Adoption consists of four degrees, whose names in French 
and English are as follows: 1. Apprentie, or Female 
Apprentice ; 2. Compagnonrbe, or Craf tswoman ; 3. Mai- 
tresse, or Mistress ; 4. Parfaite Maitresse, or Perfect 
Mistress. The doctrines inculcated in this Order were 
intended to remind the members of their especial duties 
in this world, and the words addressed by the Grand 
Mistress to the aspirant revealed the nature of the trials 
and of the instruction which awaited her in the succes- 
sive degrees into which she sought to be initiated. The 
aspirant was warned against entering the society through 
a mere feeling of curiosity, and was informed that the 
Order was destined to render human society as perfect as 
possible. She was taught to love justice and charity, to 
be free from prejudice and bigotry, to hate artifice and 
falsehood, and by her virtue to gain the universal esteem 
and friendship of her Brothers and Sisters. The candi- 
date took the following oath : "In the presence of the 
Grand Architect of the Universe I swear faithfully to 
keep the secrets intrusted to me ; if I betray them may 
I be forever dishonored and despised ; and in order that 
I may have strength to keep my promise, may a spark 
of divine light illumine and protect my heart, and lead 
me in the paths of virtue." This promise was sealed 
with three kisses which the Grand Mistress gave her ; 
the kiss of peace on the forehead, the kiss of faith on 
the right cheek, and the kiss of friendship on the left 
cheek. 

Much taste and elegance are displayed in the decora- 
tions of the Lodge-rooms of the Adoptive Rite. The 
apartments are separated by curtains, with different 



HISTORICAL SKETCH. 13 

divisions, and contain ornaments and decorations "which, 
of course, vary in the different degrees. The Masonic 
idea that the Lodge is a symbol of the world is here re- 
tained, and the four sides of the hall are said to repre- 
sent the four Continents — Europe, Africa, America, and 
Asia. The hall is also decorated with statues, repre- 
senting Wisdom, Prudence, Strength, Temperance, 
Honor, Charity, Justice, and Truth. 

Attached to the celebrated Lodge of the Nine Sisters, 
which had so many distinguished men of letters among 
its members, was a Lodge of Adoption, bearing the same 
name, which, in 1778, held a meeting at the residence of 
Madame Helvetius in honor of Benjamin Franklin, then 
our ambassador at the French court. 

The Lodges of Adoption nourished greatly in France 
after their recognition by the Grand Orient. During the 
Reign of Terror of the French Revolution, the Lodge of 
Adoption almost entirely disappeared. But on the res- 
toration of a regular government, they again flourished 
with renewed vigor, and the Empress Josephine fre- 
quently presided at the meetings of the Lodges. They 
continued to prosper under the imperial dynasty, and re- 
covered their great popularity, and are still in existence 
in France. 

Many systems of the Adoptive Rite have, from time 
to time, been introduced into the United States, with 
varied success, but none of which seemed to possess the 
elements of permanency, until the introduction of the 
Order of the Eastern Star, which was established in 
this country during the year 1855. The success of this 
Order, as now conducted, corresponds in its efficiency 
and usefulness with the extent and popularity of similar 
institutions. 



14 OEDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

OBJECTS OF THE RITE. 
For a more extended diffusion of the principles of 
morality and friendship by established and significant 
emblems ; for inciting the influence of females toward 
the purposes of the Masonic institution ; for increasing 
social enjoyment by the aid of the Masonic tie ; for 
ameliorating the condition of the destitute widow and 
the helpless orphan ; and for affording increased facili- 
ties in relieving distressed female travelers, the Ameri- 
can Adoptive Kite has been framed. 

The wives, mothers, widows, sisters, and daughters of 
Masons cannot, from the immutable laws of the Order, 
be permitted to share in the grand mysteries of Freema- 
sonry ; but there is no reason why there should not be 
a society for them, which may not merely enable them 
to make themselves known to Masons, and so to ob- 
tain assistance and protection, but by means of which, 
acting in concert through the tie of association and mu- 
tual obligation, they may co-operate in the great labors of 
Masonry, by assisting in, and in some respects directing 
the charities, and toiling in the cause of human progress. 

To secure successful results to a purpose so laudable, 
it is necessary that its votaries should apply its rules in 
a rigid sense ; carefully maintain its landmarks ; affiliate 
into its bonds only those who are well calculated by 
temperament and principle to understand and appreciate 
its beauties, and work out patiently and untiringly its 
grand designs. 

The theory of the Order of the Eastern Star is found 
ed upon the Holy Writings. Five prominent female 
characters, illustrating as many moral virtues, have 
been selected and adopted. The selections are : 



OBJECTS OF THE RITE. 15 

1. Jephthah's Daughter, illustrating respect to the 
binding force of a vow ; 

2. Ruth, illustrating devotion to religious principles ; 

3. Esther, illustrating fidelity to kindred and friends; 

4. Martha, illustrating undtviating faith in the hour 
of trial ; 

5. Electa, illustrating patience and submission under 
wrongs. 

These virtues have nowhere in history more brilliant 
exemplars than in the five characters illustrated in the 
lectures of the Order of the Eastern Star. 

The honorable and exalted purposes had in view in its 
dissemination, can have no opposition worthy the name. 
Its effects in winning to the advocacy of charity the vir- 
tuous, intelligent, and influential female members of 
our families are truly encouraging, and stimulate its 
friends to persevere in a general promulgation of the 
system. 

According to the tenets of the Order of the Eastern 
Star, the Adoptive Rite stands a bright monument to fe- 
male secrecy and fidelity, and proves how wrong all those 
are who fancy a woman is not to be trusted. There is 
not in the whole of the ceremonies of this Rite a single 
point with which the most ascetic moralist could find 
fault. On the contrary, all is pure, all is beautiful ; it 
is among the brightest jewels which spangle the records 
of this elegant system. 

As the adoptive privileges of the lady entirely de- 
pend upon the good standing and affiliation of the Broth- 
er through whom she is introduced, this system will be 
a strong inducement, it is believed, to keep a Brother, 
otherwise inclined to err, within the bounds of 
morality. ' 



16 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

DIRECTIONS, ETC. 

Those desiring to take part in the diffusion of this 
Eite will associate, to a number not less than seven, 
possessing harmony of sentiment and purpose, having 
received, in a legal manner, all the degrees of the Order, 
and petition the Supreme * Grand Chapter for a charter, 
in the following form : 

FORM OF PETITION. 

To the Grand Patron of the Grand Chapter, Order of the 
Eastern Star, of the State of : 

The undersigned, the wives, mothers, widows, sisters, 
and daughters {as the case may be) of Master Masons in 
good standing, and in possession of the five degrees of 
the Order of the Eastern Star, as appears by the certifi- 
cate annexed, being desirous of associating ourselves 
into a Subordinate Chapter, for the purposes of mutual 
aid, sympathy, and relief, as contemplated in the Con- 
stitution and By-Laws of the Grand Chapter, and for 
the greater extension of the Adoptive Rite, do hereby 

solicit a Charter under the title of Chapter, No. 

... to be holden at County of State of ... . 

We have selected and do recommend Sister 

to be Worthy Matron, and Sister to be Associate 

Matron, and would recommend the appointment of 

Brother to be the Worthy Patron of said 

Chapter. 

If the prayer of this petition shall be granted, we 
solemnly pledge ourselves to strictly conform to the 
constitutional requirements of the Grand Chapter in all 
things appertaining to the Adoptive Rite, and the edicts 

* When a Grand Chapter shall have been established in a State 
the word " Supreme" should be omitted. 



DIRECTIONS, ETC. 17 

of the Grand Patron, when said edicts are not incon- 
sistent with the Landmarks of the Rite; and if the 
Chapter herein solicited fail to become organized, or at 
any time hereafter be dissolved, we pledge our honor, 
each for herself and her successors, that the charter] 
books of record and account, and rituals shall be im- 
mediately returned to your Grand Secretary. 

In token whereof, we have severally affixed our 

hands this day of , a.d. 18. . . 

{Signed by all tlie petitioners.) 

INDORSEMENT. 

This petition must be indorsed by the Deputy Grand 
Patron of the State, or by the Master of the Lodge 
nearest the place where the Chapter is to be located, and 
should be in this or similar form : 

This is to certify that the names attached to the 
within petition are in their own proper handwriting, 
and are known or avouched to me as the {naming their 
relationship to members of the Masonic Order), all of 
whom have received the degrees of the Order of the 
Eastern Star. 

I therefore fraternally recommend granting the prayer 
of the petitioners. 

(Signed,) 

Master of ... . Lodge, No. . . , at 

TITLE OF THE BODY. 

The body when assembled is styled a " Chapter of the 
Order of the Eastern Star," which shall be composed of 
males and females, and must consist of not less than 
seven ladies, being the wives, mothers, widows, sisters, 
or daughters of Master Masons in good standing. 



18 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

OFFICERS OF A CHAPTER. 

The officers of a Chapter shall consist of and be styled, 

1. Worthy Matron ; 

2. Associate Matron ; 

3. Treasurer ; 

4. Secretary; 

5. Conductress ; 

6. Associate Conductress ; 

7. Warder ; 

8. Sentinel ; 

9. Adah ; 

10. Ruth; 

11. Esther; 

12. Martha ; 

13. Electa ; 

14. Worthy Patron, who must be a Master Mason 
and a contributing member of a Lodge, whose duty is to 
advise with the Officers of the Chapter, and preside 
when the degrees are being conferred ; preside at the 
election of officers, and such other times as may be re- 
quired by the Worthy Matron. 

stations op officers. 
Their stations are as follows : 1. Worthy Matron, in 
the East ; 2. Associate Matron, in the West , 3. Treas- 
urer, at the right of the Matron, in front ; 4. Secretary, 
at the left of the Matron, in front ; 5. Conductress, in 
the South ; 6. Associate Conductress, in the North ; 7. 
Warder, at the door, inside, and at the right of the 
Associate Matron ; 8. Sentinel, at the door, outside ; 9. 
Adah, on the first or Blue point of the Star ; 10. Ruth, 
on the second or Yellow point ; 11. Esther, on the third 
or White point ; 12. Martha, on the fourth or Green 



ADOPTIVE KITE. 19 

STATIONS OF THE OFFICERS. 



A A 

~W. MATRON. "tt\ PATRON. 



A 

TREASURE!!. 



A 

SECRETARY. 



<i 




i> 



ASSOCIATE MATRON. 

A 



WARDER. 

A 
A 

SENTINEL. 



JEWELS AND KEGALIA. 21 

point ; 13. Electa, on the fifth, or Red point ; 14. Worthy 
Patron, in the East, at the left of the W. M., except 
during the ceremonies of initiation, when he shall pre- 
side, with the W. Matron on his right. 

JEWELS AND REGALIA. 

The officers will be distinguished by their respective 
jewels of office, made of yellow metal, as follows : 

Worthy Matron — Five-pointed Star, with Gavel in the 
center, suspended from a purple ribbon. 

Associate Matron — Five-pointed Star, with a full Sun 
in the center, suspended from a ribbon of the five 
appropriate colors. 

Treasurer — Five-pointed Star, with Cross-keys in the 
center, suspended as above. 

Secretary — Five-pointed Star, with Cross-pens in the 
center, suspended as above. 

Conductress — Five-pointed Star, with Scroll and Baton 
crossed in the center, suspended as above. 

Associate Conductress — Five-pointed Star, with Baton 
in the center, suspended as above. 

Warder — Five-pointed Star, with Dove in the center, 
suspended as above. 

Sentinel — Five-pointed Star, with Cross-swords in the 
center, suspended as above. 

Adah — Triangle, with Sword and Yail engraved in the 
center, suspended from a blue ribbon. 

Euth — Triangle, with Sheaf standing, engraved in the 
center, suspended from a yellow ribbon. 

Esther — Triangle, with Crown and Scepter engraved 
in the center, suspended from a white ribbon. 

Martha — Triangle, with Broken Column engraved in 
the center, suspended from a green ribbon. 



22 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 



Electa — Triangle, with Cup engraved in the center, 
suspended from a red ribbon. 

Worthy Patron — Five-pointed Star, with Square and 
Compasses in the center, suspended from a purple ribbon. 

COLORS OF THE DEGREES. 

The colors appropriate to the degrees are — Blue for 
Adah ; Yellow for Ruth ; White for Esther ; Green for 
Martha ; Bed for Electa. 




SCARF OF THE WORTHY MATRON". 

The Scarf of the Worthy Matron to be made of royal 
purple velvet, or purple watered silk, three inches wide, 
edged with gold lace, quarter inch (three lines) wide, 



MEMBERSHIP. 23 

gold fringe two and a half inches (thirty lines) long 
around the lower edge ; on the left shoulder a five-point- 
ed Eastern Star, worked in silk ; at the crossing a golden 
rosette, from which may be suspended two gold tassels, 
about three inches long. To be worn from the left 
shoulder to the right side. The official jewel to be sus- 
pended from the Scarf over the left breast. 

SCARF OF THE ORDER. 

A Scarf of the five colors, three inches wide, with a 
rosette on the shoulder, breast, and at the crossing, 
worn from the right shoulder to the left side, is the 
distinctive regalia of the Order. 

MEMBERSHIP. 

The benefits of this Rite are mainly to the female sex. 
For them this temple has been reared, these walls set 
up. They are its crown and glory ; and its value con- 
sists in the spirit with which they enter into and conduct 
it, and the grace they throw around it. 

The female members of this Rite are styled Sisters ; 
male members, Brothers. 

The lawful recipients of the Adoptive Rite are such 
worthy females — being the wives, mothers, widows, 
daughters, or sisters of affiliated Master Masons — as may 
be regularly proposed by one and recommended by an- 
other member of the Chapter, and unanimously elected 
by the members at a stated meeting of the Chapter. 
The petition must in all cases be presented at a stated 
meeting, referred to a committee of three members for 
investigation, and lay over until the next regular meet- 
ing before ballot. The sister or daughter of a Mason, if 



24 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

unmarried, must have attained the age of eighteen years 
to be eligible for initiation or membership. 

Master Masons, affiliated in regular Lodges, may be 
proposed by a member of the Chapter, and unanimously 
elected. 

PETITION OP A LADY. 

The form of petition for the degrees and membership 
from a lady may be as follows : 

To the Worthy Matron, Officers, and Members of 

Chapter, No , Order of the Eastern Star : 

Tour petitioner, the (wife, mother, widow, sister or 

daughter) of Bro , of Lodge, No. . . . solicits 

the light and privileges of the Order of the Eastern Star 
in your Chapter. 

If the prayer of her petition shall be granted, she 
pledges her honor that she will, in all respects, conform 
to the legal requirements of your Chapter, and be sub- 
ject to the rules and regulations of the Grand Chapter. 
(Signed ) 



Recommended by 

PETITION OP A MASTER MASON. 

The form of petition from a Master Mason may be as 
follows : 

To the Worthy Matron, Officers, and Members of 

Chapter, No , Order of the Eastern Star. 

Your petitioner, a Master Mason, and a member in 

good standing in Lodge, No , held at , 

solicits the light and knowledge of the Order of the 
Eastern Star in your Chapter. 



MEMBEKSHIP. 25 

If the prayer of Ms petition shall be granted, he 
pledges his honor as a Master Mason, that he will, in all 
respects, conform to the legal requirements of your Chap- 
ter, and be subject to the constitutional rules and regu- 
lations of the Grand Chapter. 
(Signed,) 



Vouched for by 

The Brother, if elected, will be required to pledge his 
honor as a Master Mason, in open Chapter, to conform to 
the rules and regulations of the Order. 

FOKM OF PETITION WITH DIMIT. 

A sister or brother having dimitted from a Chapter, and 
wishing to affiliate with another, will use the following 
form of petition : 

lo the W. Matron, Officers, and Members, of Chapter, 

No , Order of the Eastern Star. 

The undersigned, now (or late) a member of 

Chapter, No , solicits affiliation in your Chapter. 

If this petition shall be granted, she (he) pledges her 
honor (his honor as a Mason) to conform, in all respects, 
to the legal requirements of your Chapter. 

(Signed,) 



Recommended by 

The petition may be accompanied by a certificate of 
withdrawal from the last Chapter of which the petition- 
er was a member, which may be obtained by a majority 
vote, and may be in the following form : 



26 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

" "We have seen his star in the East 
And are come to worship him." 

To all Enlightened Members of the Order of the Eastern 
Star, wherever dispersed, this Certificate of Withdrawal 
witnesseth : 

That Sister* , whose name appears in ^ 

the margin of this instrument, was initiated into 

the light of the Adoptive Rite in Chapter, 

No , (or affiliated therein,) holden at , 

on the .... day of , 18 . . . 

That during her connection with us, she has in all 
respects conformed to the legal requirements of this 
Chapter, and the constitutional rules and regulations of 
the Grand Chapter. 

That in her withdrawal she bears with her the love 
and esteem of the officers and members of this Chapter ; 
and we affectionately commend her to the friendship and 
protection of all enlightened members of the Order 
wherever in the journey of life she may be found. 

[Seal.] , W. Matron. 

, Secretary. 

MEMBERSHIP OP A SISTER. 

The membership of a Sister is forfeited : — 1. By ab- 
sence from the meetings of the Chapter for two years ; 
2. By suspension (for the time specified), expulsion, or 
dimission from the Chapter. 

MEMBERSHIP OP A BROTHER. 

The membership of a Brother is forfeited : — 1. By sus- 
pension, expulsion, or dimission from the Masonic 
Lodge of which he was a member ; 2. By suspension or 

* Vary this form to suit a certificate for a Brother. 



LANDMARKS OF THE ORDER. 27 

expulsion from the Chapter. Restoration by, or affilia- 
tion with, a Lodge will remove the first cause ; restora- 
tion by the Chapter will remove the second. 

ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP. 

No person can be an active member of more than one 
Chapter at the same time, nor shall any member be per- 
mitted to withdraw from a Chapter until all dues and 
other indebtedness to the same are paid or remitted. 

POWERS AND AUTHORITY OF A CHAPTER. 

A Subordinate Chapter has original powers and author- 
ity for action in the following : 1. In all matters of disci- 
pline involving inquiry into misconduct, and trial and 
punishment for the same ; provided, however, that in 
all cases an appeal to the Grand Chapter or Grand Patron 
shall be allowed : 2. In all appropriations of the funds of 
the Chapter ; 3. In the free choice and selection of its 
own officers and members ; 4. In the disposition of its 
own property, except its charter, books of record and 
accounts, and rituals. These, of right, belong to the 
Grand Chapter. 

LANDMARKS OF THE ORDER. 

1. The Eastern Star is the basis of the five Degrees of 
the Adoptive Rite ; the name and character of the Rite 
are unchangeable. 

2. Its lessons are Scriptural, its teachings are moral, 
and its purposes are beneficent. 

3. Its obligations are based upon the honor of the female 
sex who obtain its ceremonies, and are framed upon the 
principle that whatever benefits are due by the Masonic 
Fraternity to the wives, mothers, widows, daughters, and 



28 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

sisters of Masons, corresponding benefits are due from 
them to the Brotherhood. 

4. A belief in the existence of a Supreme Being, who 
will, sooner or later, punish the willful violation of a 
solemn pledge. 

5. The modes of recognition, which are the peculiar 
secrets of the Rite, cannot, without destroying the foun- 
dation of the system, be changed. 

6. That a covenant of secrecy, voluntarily assumed, is 
perpetual ; from the force of such obligation there is no 
possibility of release. 

7. The control of the Rite lies in a central head, styled 
the Grand Chapter of the State of , of the Adop- 
tive Rite, or in the prerogatives of the Grand Patron, 
when the Grand Chapter is not in session. 

8. That the ballot for candidates for membership must 
be unanimous, and be kept inviolably secret. 

9. The right of every Chapter to be the judge of who 
shall be admitted to its membership, and to select its 
own officers ; but in no case can the ceremonies of the 
Order be conferred unless a Master Mason in good stand- 
ing in the Masonic fraternity presides. 

10. Every Sister is amenable to the laws and regula- 
tions of the Order, and may be tried for offenses, though 
she may permanently or temporarily reside within the 
jurisdiction of another Chapter. 

£1. The right of every Sister to appeal from the deci- 
sion of her associates in Chapter convened, to the Grand 
Chapter, or to the Grand Patron. 

12. The prerogative of the Grand Patron to preside 
over every assembly of the Rite wherever he may visit, 
and to grant dispensations for the formation of new 
Chapters within the territorial jurisdiction. 

13. That every Chapter has the right to dispense the 



PRELIMINARIES TO OPENING A CHAPTER. 29 

light of the Adoptive Rite, and to administer its own 
private affairs. 

14. Every Chapter should elect and install its officers 
annually. 

15. The right of every Sister to visit and sit in every 
regular Chapter, except when such visitor is likely to 
disturb the harmony or interrupt the business of the 
Chapter she proposes to visit 

PRELIMINARIES TO OPENING A CHAPTER. 

Those precautionary measures which form so promi- 
nent a feature in all secret affiliated systems, whereby 
they are enabled to detect impostors and reject them 
from their assemblies, are of the highest importance in 
the Adoptive Rite, in view of the peculiar intimacy be- 
tween the sexes which constitute the prime feature and 
aim of this society. This intimacy is, in itself, calcu- 
lated to furnish the world with a subject for slanderous 
imputations ; and it will infallibly render any negligence 
allowed, though apparently slight and unimportant, 
serious in its consequences. 

The officers of the Chapter are, therefore, required by 
every principle of prudence and self-preservation, to 
study critically the most thorough measures of precau- 
tion ; to exercise extraordinary vigilance in purging the 
assemblies, and to allow neither fear nor favor to bias 
them in the admission of unworthy visitors. 

The meetings of the Chapter are Regular or Special. 

The Regular meetings are those enjoined by the by- 
laws, and may be held weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly, 
at the choice of the members expressed in the by-laws. 

The Special meetings are those summoned at the will 
of the Worthy Matron, or, in her absence, by the Asso- 
ciate Matron, upon any proper emergency. 



30 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

No meeting, either Begular or Special, is lawfully held 
unless the Charter is present. 

No business is proper at a Special meeting, except such 
as is stated in the call. 

The place of meeting may be in a hall or private 
apartment. It must be sufficiently secluded to insure 
secrecy. A contiguous apartment for the preparation 
of candidates, the reception of visitors, etc., is essential. 

QUORUM FOR BUSINESS. 

A meeting of the Chapter, for any business except 
conferring degrees, may be opened and held by seven 
members, the Worthy Matron or Associate Matron being 
one. The number proper to confer the degrees must be 
at least nine, of which the Worthy Patron shall be one. 

ARTICLES NECESSARY FOR CHAPTER. 

The paraphernalia necessary for the business of the 
Chapter are one or more small Bibles, the charter, by- 
laws, seal, a signet, for a complete explanation of the 
degrees, a flooring, consisting of a five-pointed Star, 
painted with the proper colors and emblems, on the cen- 
ter of which should stand the altar, with an open Bible 
thereon, and a Gavel on the pedestal in the East, for the 
use of the Matron. When the degrees are conferred, a 
vail for the Candidate, sword and vail for Adah, culms 
of barley (artificial) for Ruth, crown and scepter for 
Esther, broken column for Martha, and cup for Electa. 

BALLOT BOX. 

The Associate Conductress has charge of the ballot 
box, who will present and receive it from the Matron, 
carry it to the A. Matron for her ballot, and then place 
it on the altar, when the members will proceed to vote. 



OPENING CEREMONIES. 



The hour specified in the by-laws (or indicated in the 
summons, when the meeting is a special one) for open- 
ing the Chapter having arrived, the furniture and para- 
phernalia of the Chapter being in place, the members 
assembled, the officers, except the Patron and Associate 
Conductress, will retire to the inner ante-room; the 
Patron ascends the dais, in the East,* gives one blow 
with the Gavel, which is the signal for attention, and 
requests the Associate Conductress to invite the Worthy 
Matron and other officers to enter the Chapter-room. 
This request is obeyed; they enter in two lines, the 
Conductress and Associate Conductress leading, and 
passing to the right and left, bring the Matron and 
Associate Matron to the center, as in the following 
diagram: 



A. COND. 

Treas. 
Electa. 
Martha. 
Esther. 




Cond. 

Sec. 

Adah. 

Ruth. 

Ward. 



W. M. * * A. M. 

As the officers enter, the Chapter is called up. The 
Patron invites the Matron to the East (the Conductress 
and Associate Conductress acting as escorts), and pre- 
sents her the Gavel, when she says: 

W. M. The Officers will resume their several 



* That end of the apartment which is occupied by the Presiding 
Officer in termed the East. During the entrance of the officers, 
good effect may be produced by the use of music. 



32 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

stations and prepare for the active duties of the 
Chapter. 

They do so. The Sentinel closes the door and sees 
that the ante-rooms are secure. When all is in readiness, 
the W. Matron will say : 

W. M, Sisters, Brothers and Visitors of 

Chapter, No. . . , Order of the Eastern Star, the 
hour has arrived for us to resume our labors. 
To open our Chapter in a manner that will in- 
sure the solemnity of our work, and to secure the 
best results, I must require your uninterrupted 
attention and assistance. Sister Associate Ma- 
tron,* ascertain whether all present are mem- 
bers of the Order of the Eastern Star, or enti- 
tled to be present. 

A. M. Sister Conductress, ascertain and re- 
port if all present are members of the Order 
of the Eastern Star, or entitled to be present. 

The Conductress and Associate Conductress will use the 
customary means of examination, by passing around the 
room, if necessary, to question those with whom they are 
not personally acquainted. When fully satisfied, they 
resume their stations, and the Conductress replies : 

Cond. Sister Associate Matron, all sisters pres- 
ent are members of the Order of the Eastern 

Star, and entitled to be present. 

* As each officer is addressed by the W. M., she rises without fur- 
ther signal, and remains standing during the ceremonies of opening. 



OPENESTG CEItEifONIES. 33 

A. M. Worthy Matron, all sisters present are 
members of the Order of the Eastern Star, and 
entitled to be present. 

The Patron will assure himself that the gentlemen 
present are entitled to seats in the Chapter, and so an- 
nounce the fact to the W. M. If there should be any 
Master Masons present who have not been obligated, 
that ceremony should be performed immediately after 
the Chapter shall be declared open. 

W. M. It is well. In behalf of the Chapter, 
I extend a hearty welcome to all. Sister Warder, 
yon will instruct the Sentinel that we are engaged 
in the solemn ceremonies of opening our Chap- 
ter, and direct (her)* him to permit no inter- 
ruption to be made while we are thus engaged. 

The Warder opens the door and repeats the directions 
of the W. M. She then closes the door and says : 

W. Worthy Matron, no interruption will be 
made from without. 

W. M. Sister Associate Matron, what number 
of officers constitute a Chapter of the Order of 
the Eastern Star when complete, and what titles 
do they bear? 

A. M. A complete Chapter requires fourteen, 
and their titles are : Worthy Matron, Worthy Pa- 
tron, Associate Matron, Treasurer, Secretary, 

*The Sentinel may, at the option of the Chapter, he a Sister or 
Brother ; the latter is preferable. 



34 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

Conductress, Associate Conductress, Warder, Sen- 
tinel, Adah, Ruth, Esther, Martha, and Electa. 

W. M. Where is our Sentinel stationed ? 

A. M. Outside the closed door. 

W. M. What are his duties ? and explain his 
badge of office. 

A. M. To protect the Chapter against the in- 
troduction of improper persons. His badge of 
office, the Cross-swords within the star, emblems 
of protection, admonishes him that upon his 
watchful care depends our security against inter- 
ruption, without which the solemnity of our pro- 
ceedings would be destroyed and all secrecy lost. 

W. M. Where is our Warder stationed ? 

A, M. At the Southwest entrance of the Chap- 
ter, Worthy Matron. 

W. M. What are your duties, Sister Warder ? 
and explain your badge of office. 

W. To act in conjunction with the Sentinel in 
protecting the Chapter from the intrusion of im- 
proper persons. My badge of office, the Dove 
within the star, an emblem of peace, admonishes 
me that a state of harmony and serenity becomes 
all our proceedings, and that I should use my ut- 
most endeavors to promote it. 

W. M. Where is the Associate Conductress 
stationed ? 

W. In the North, Worthy Matron. 



OPENING- CEREMONIES. 35 

W. M. What are your duties, Sister Associate 
Conductress ? and explain your badge of office. 

A, C. To receive and prepare candidates for 
initiation, and to assist the Conductress in the 
active duties of the Chapter. My badge of office, 
the Baton within the star, an emblem of direc- 
tion, admonishes me that good discipline is es- 
sential to the success of our society. My own 
attention to the directions of my superior officers 
will be the measure of respect which others will 
pay to me. 

W. M. Where is our Conductress stationed ? 

A. C. In the South, Worthy Matron. 

W. M. What are your duties, Sister Conduc- 
tress ? and explain your badge of office. 

C. To ascertain if all persons are entitled to be 
present at the opening of the Chapter, and to 
conduct candidates during their initiation. My 
badge of office, the Scroll and Baton, emblems 
of prepared plans and their fulfillment, admon- 
ishes me that the first impressions made upon a 
candidate, when entering our Chapter, are per- 
manent, and should be for good ; and that it de- 
pends greatly upon the manner of conducting 
her through the mazy labyrinth of our rite, to 
make those impressions lasting and what we 
desire they should be. 

W. M. Where is our Secretary stationed ? 



36 OKDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

C. In the Southeast, Worthy Matron. 

W. M. What are your duties, Sister Secre- 
tary ? and explain your badge of office. 

Sec. To carefully observe the proceedings of 
the Chapter ; to record that which is proper to 
be written ; to receive all moneys due the 
Chapter and pay the same to the Treasurer, tak-. 
ing her receipt therefor. My badge of office, the 
Cross-pens within the star, emblems of power and 
intelligence, admonishes me that as a faithful 
record is kept by an invisible pen of all our 
thoughts and actions, so I must be faithful to 
my trust, that the good deeds of my companions 
may not go unrecorded, and that the moneys in- 
trusted to my hands shall have proper record 
and direction. 

W. M. Where is our Treasurer stationed ? 

Sec, In the Northeast, Worthy Matron. 

W. M. What are your duties, Sister Treasurer? 
and explain your badge of office. 

Treas. To receive all moneys from the Secre- 
tary, giving her a receipt therefor, and pay them 
out only upon an order signed by the Worthy 
Matron and Secretary. My badge of office, the 
Cross-keys within the star, emblems of security, 
admonishes me to the strictest fidelity in the pre- 
servation and disbursement of the funds intrusted 
to my keeping. The relief of the distressed, and 



OPENING CEREMONIES. 37 

the necessary expenses of our Chapter would be 
forfeited by a violation of the sacred obligations 
assumed by me. 

IF. J7. Where is Adah stationed ? 

Treas. At the first point of the Star, Worthy 
Matron. 

W. M. Sister Adah, communicate to us the 
duties of your station, and explain the color and 
emblems appropriate to the blue point of our 
Central Star. 

Adah. To make known to all proper inquirers 
the light, knowledge, and beauty of the blue ray, 
which represents the clearness of the sky, when 
all clouds have vanished, and symbolizes chastity, 
loyalty, fidelity, and a spotless reputation. My 
emblems are the Sword and Vail, emblematic of 
the heroic conduct of Jephthah's Daughter, whom 
I represent. 

W. M. Where is Ruth stationed ? 

Adah. At the second point of the Star, Worthy 
Matron. 

W. M. Sister Ruth, communicate to us the 
duties of your station, and explain the color and 
emblem appropriate to the yellow point of our 
central Star. 

Ruth. To make known to all proper inquirers 
the light, knowledge, and beauty of the yellow ray, 
which symbolizes constancy, purity, and the 



38 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

lustre of great brightness. My badge, the Sheaf, 
is an emblem of plenty, which being composed of 
distinct and minute parts, is gathered together 
by patient industry. Such was the generous 
labor of the humble gleaner Ruth, whom I re- 
present. 

W. M. Where is Esther stationed ? 

Ruth, At the third point of the Star, Worthy 
Matron. 

W. M. Sister Esther, communicate to us the 
duties of your station, and explain the color and 
emblems appropriate to the white point of our 
central Star. 

Esther. To make known to all proper inquirers 
the light, knowledge, and beauty of the white ray, 
which symbolizes light, purity, aud joy. My 
badge, the CroAvn and Scepter united, is an 
emblem of royalty and power. In the exercise of 
high authority, we should be governed by the 
purest principles of justice and moderation. It 
was by the practice of these attributes that Esther, 
whom I represent, saved her people from ex- 
tirpation. 

W. M. Where is Martha stationed? 

Esther. At the fourth point of the Star, Worthy 
Matron. 

W. M. Sister Martha, communicate to us the 
duties of your station, and explain the color and 



OPENING CEREMONIES. 39 

emblem appropriate to the green point of our 
central Star. 

Martha, To make known to all proper inquirers 
the light, knowledge, and beauty of the green ray, 
the purity and freshness of which are emblems of 
delight — the beauties of nature — symbolizing 
hope and immortality. My badge, the Broken 
Column is typical of the death of a human being, 
cut off in the vigor of manhood, and expresses 
the sisterly grief of Martha, whom I represent. 

W. M. Where is Electa stationed ? 

Martha. At the fifth point of the Star, Worthy 
Matron. 

W. M. Sister Electa, communicate to us the 
duties of your station, and explain the color and 
emblem appropriate to the red point of our 
central Star. 

Electa. To make known to all proper inquirers 
the light, knowledge, and beauty of the red ray, 
symbolically representing ardor and zeal, which 
should actuate all who are engaged in the holy 
cause of benevolence. My badge, the Cup, is an 
emblem of the bitter draught, of which we are 
constantly partaking through life ; but, however 
distasteful, will, in the end, overflow with bless- 
ings, rich, abounding, and eternal. 

W. M. Where is our Associate Matron stationed? 

Electa. In the West, Worthy Matron. 



40 ORDER OP THE EASTERN STAR. 

W. M. What are your duties, Sister Associate 
Matron ? and explain your badge of office. 

A. M. To assist the Worthy Matron in the dis- 
charge of her duties, and to preside during her 
absence. My badge of office, the Eefulgent Sun 
within the star, an emblem of brightness, admon- 
ishes me to assist the Worthy Matron, by my 
counsel, as the rising sun enlightens the day, 
being ever ready to assume her station, should she 
be absent. 

W. M. Where is the Worthy Matron stationed ? 

A. M. In the East, Worthy Matron. 

W. M. Explain her duties, responsibilities, and 
badge of office. 

A. M. To preside over the deliberations, and 
see that the purposes of the Chapter are properly 
conducted. Her badge of office, the Gavel with- 
in the star, the highest emblem of authority, 
admonishes her that upon her judgment and dis- 
cretion rests the government of this Chapter, and 
the prosperity of our beautiful Order in this 
place. Her responsibilities to God for the faith- 
ful discharge of her duties in this Chapter, and 
to her Sisters for the dissemination of light and 
knowledge, should ever prompt her to do her 
work in a spirit of faith and prayer. 

W. 31. It is in this spirit that I propose to open 
our Chapter, and perform whatever duties may 



OFESTIXG CEREMONIES. 41 

devolve upon me; and that we may have the 
needed grace to do our work well, let us pray. 

The W. Matron calls up the Chapter with two raps of 
the Gfovel, when the Patron offers the following 

PRAYER. 

Lord of all mercies and blessings ! com- 
mend us, we beseech Thee at this time, in tak- 
ing upon ourselves the work of administering to 
the wants of the poor and of extending the 
reign of peace and love upon earth. Grant us, 
first, a willing mind which Thou wilt accept ac- 
cording to that which we have, and then, such 
ability from Thy hand as that we may not dis- 
honor the noble cause we have espoused. Bless 
our humble labors to the promotion of truth 
and love, unity and peace. Make all grace to 
abound toward us. Enrich us in everything to 
all bountifulness, that, through us, there may be 
thanksgiving unto Thee, our God. Amen. 

W. M. You have all spoken well, my sisters, 
and given utterance to noble sentiments. The 
pleasing thoughts, so beautifully expressed, are 
embodied in our Opening Hymn, in which I 
request you all to join. 

While standing, all will join in singing the 

OPENING ODE. 
See Opening Odes, at p. 92. 



42 ORDER OP the: eastern star. 

At the conclusion of the singing, the Matron says : 
W. M. In the name of the departed heroines 
whose virtues we should strive to emulate ; in the 
name of our great Sisterhood, knit together in 
bonds of charity and sincere friendship, and in 
the name of our Heavenly Father, who has declar- 
ed that he loveth a cheerful giver, I declare 

Chapter, No...., Order of the Eastern Star, 
open and in due order for the dispatch of busi- 
ness. Sister Warder, you will so instruct the 
Sentinel. 

The W. M. gives the signal for all to be seated, and 
the Warder informs the Sentinel that the Chapter is 
open. The Associate Conductress opens the Bible on the 
altar, and the business of the meeting proceeds. 



CLOSING CEREMONIES. 

The business of the Chapter being completed, the 
Worthy Matron proceeds as follows : 

W. M. Sister Associate Matron, does any work 
of charity or benevolence remain unperformed ? 

A. M. None, Worthy Matron, within my knowl- 
edge. 

W. M. Then, Sister Warder, you will instruct 
the Sentinel that we are about to close this 



CLOSING CEREMONIES. 43 

Chapter, and to permit no interruption to be 
made while we are thus engaged. 

The Warder instructs the Sentinel, and then says : 

W. Worthy Matron, no interruption will be 
made from without. 

W. M. It is well. Sisters and Brethren, unite 
with us in singing our Closing Ode. 

The W. M. calls up the Chapter, when all participate 
in singing the 

CLOSING* ODE. 
See Closing Odes, at p. 96. 
At the conclusion of the singing, the Matron says : 

W. M. Sisters and Brethren, we go forth into 
the world, not knowing the things that shall meet 
us there, save that troubles and trials everywhere 
abound in the labyrinth of human life. Let us 
never be dismayed, for our Heavenly Father has 
promised to strengthen us, to help us, and to up- 
hold us with the right hand of his power. 

Farewell ! 

All reply, Farewell ! 



INITIATION. 

The applicant for the light and privileges of the Order 
of the Eastern Star having been elected to receive the 
degrees and be admitted to membership in the Chapter, 
having been notified by the Secretary, will present her- 
self at the place of meeting, at her early convenience, 
and remain in the ante-room. The order " Initiation " 
having been reached, the W. Matron will say : 

W. M. Sister Associate Conductress, yon will 
retire and ascertain if there are any candidates 
in waiting, and report to the Worthy Patron. 

The A. C. retires and, finding a candidate in the ante- 
room, ascertains her name, returns to the Chapter room, 
and says : 

A. G. Worthy Patron, I find {naming the 
person or persons)* present and desirous of being 
initiated into our Order. 

The W. M. will now present the Gavel to the Patron, 
who takes charge of the Chapter, and turning to the 
Secretary, says : 

W. P. Sister Secretary, has the petition of this 
(these) candidate been received in open Chapter, 
and has she been regularly elected to receive the 
degrees of the Order? 
Sec, She (they) has. 

* If there is more than one candidate, all the questions, etc., must 
be varied to suit the case. 



INITIATION. 45 

W. P. Then, Sister Associate Conductress, you 
will again retire, and propound to the candidate 
the necessary questions, and, if satisfactorily an- 
swered, prepare her for the ceremonies of initia- 
tion, and, when so prepared, make the usual alarm 
at the door of the preparation-room. 

The A. C. retires and says to the candidate : 

A. C. Do you still entertain the desire ex- 
pressed in your petition, to receive the light and 
privileges of the Order of the Eastern Star ? 

Cand. I do. 

A. C. It is well. Your request shall be com- 
plied with. 

The A. C, taking the candidate into the preparation- 
room, will say : 

A. C. My friend, human life is a labyrinth 
through which we all wander blindly, and too 
often, alas, in ignorance. It is good to have a 
friend by our side and a friendly hand that can 
guide us with infallible certainty and safety 
through its intricate mazes. Permit me, there- 
fore, for a time, to act as your guide, and to 
prepare you for the ceremonies of our Order. 

The A. C. then prepares the candidate, by removing 
her hat, gloves, cloak or shawl, and jewelry, so that she 
will appear plainly dressed. A thin white vail is thrown 
over her head and face, and she is led to the inner door 



46 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

of the Chapter, where the A. C. gives ***** distinct 
raps. The Conductress, rising in her station, says : 

Cond. Worthy Patron, there is an alarm at the 
door of the preparation-room. 

W. P. Sister Conductress, ascertain the cause 
of the alarm, and ask the necessary questions. 

The Conductress goes to the door, gives five distinct 
knocks, opens the door, and says : 

Cond. Who knocks at the door of our Chapter ? 

A. C. The Associate Conductress, with a can- 
didate who desires to be initiated into our Order. 

Cond. Has the candidate made satisfactory an- 
swers to the necessary questions ? 

A. C. She has. 

Cond. Is she properly prepared ? 

A. C. She is. 

Cond. {To the candidate.) My friend, have you 
well considered the request you make ? 

Cand. I have. 

Cond. Are you prepared to undergo the neces- 
sary trials and assume our obligation of secrecy ? 

Cand. I am. 

Cond. Are you also prepared faithfully to per- 
form the duties and to accept the responsibilities 
of a Sister of the Eastern Star ? 

Cand. I am. 

Cond. Learn then the first lesson of a peti- 
tioner. Be patient, and wait. 



INITIATION. 47 

The Conductress closes the door, turns to the Patron, 
and says : 

Cond. Worthy Patron, the alarm was caused by 
the Associate Conductress with the candidate, 
who desires to be initiated into our Order. 

W. P. Has she made satisfactory answers to 
the necessary questions ? 

Cond. She has. 

W. P. Then you will admit her. 
The Conductress, opening the door, says : 

Cond. Orders have been transmitted to me by 
our Worthy Patron, that this candidate be ad- 
mitted into our Chapter, we having entire con- 
fidence in her integrity and fidelity. Enter, 
dear friend, for we are prepared to give you a 
hearty welcome. 

As the candidate crosses the threshold, the Conduc- 
tress takes her by the left arm and conducts her around 
the room, outside of the star ; slow soft music being 
played. While making the circuit of the star, the 
Conductress will recite the following, or an Ode may be 
sung : 

Cond. You have, doubtless, well considered the 
step you have taken in entering this Order. — It 
is dedicated to Charity, Truth, and Loving Kind- 
ness. — You come here of your own free choice. 
Complain not, therefore, at any trial. — A seal is 
set upon your lips. — Let it warn you to be ever 



48 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

silent and secret as to all that may befall you or 
be made known to you here. — Be not weary in 
well doing. — Wo unto those who seek to take 
upon themselves burdens whicli they are unable 
to bear! — Wo unto the faithless and insincere, 
who assume their obligations lightly, and forth- 
with forget them ! — Trust in the Lord with all 
your heart, and lean not unto your own under- 
standing. — In all your ways acknowledge Him, 
and He will direct your paths. 

The Conductress and candidate having made the cir- 
cuit, and reached the West, the Conductress will say : 

Cond. Sister Associate Matron, I have the 
pleasure of introducing {naming the person), to 
be presented by you to the Worthy Patron. She 
declares herself prepared to assume our obliga- 
tion of secrecy, and faithfully to perform the 
duties of a Sister of the Order of the Eastern 
Star. 

A. M. My friend, you are heartily welcome. 
Sister Conductress, cause the candidate to face 
the East. 

The candidate is placed in position, facing the East, 
when the Associate Matron will say : 

A. M. Worthy Patron, I have the honor to 
present {naming the candidate and the particu- 
lar relation in which she stands to Freemasonry), 
whose petition has been approved by this 



INITIATION. 49 

Chapter; who now declares herself ready to 
enter upon the good work in which we are en- 
gaged, and to pledge her honor in our Covenant 
of Adoption for the faithful discharge of all its 
duties. 

The Patron rises and addresses the candidate. 

TF. P. It is with great pleasure that I welcome 
you into this Chapter. Your recommendations 
have convinced us that you merit the honor we 
confer, and are worthy the responsible trust with 
which we are about to invest you. We trust 
that the lessons taught here will both please and 
instruct you. The object for which we are asso- 
ciated together are to comfort, aid, and protect 
each other in our journey through the labyrinth 
of human life, and to make its various hardships 
lighter by means of cheerful companionship and 
social pleasures. We are willing you should join 
us in this pleasing work. We are in possession 
of certain secrets, by means of which we recog- 
nize each other wherever we may meet. We 
are willing to make you acquainted with these 
secrets, that you, too, may be recognized as a 
member of this society. We are^ governed by a 
[Supreme]* Grand Chapter, which makes our 

* In States having a Grand Chapter, the word " Supreme 1 ' will he 
omitted . 



50 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

laws and regulations uniform with those of all 
other Subordinate Chapters of this Order, and 
by a form of by-laws framed by ourselves. We 
are bound to obey these laws, regulations, and by- 
laws, while we remain members of the society. 
In this obedience we shall expect you to share. 

It becomes, then, my pleasing duty, as the 
representative of the highest responsible officer 
of this Chapter, to explain to you the nature of 
the Covenant of Adoption. It is the solemn 
pledge which you must give to this assembly, 
before you can participate in the labors or enjoy 
the privileges of the Order. But we do not wish, 
nor would we permit, you to assume this pledge, 
save with your own consent, and with a full un- 
derstanding of all that is implied by it. If, after 
the Covenant shall have been rehearsed, you 
should be unwilling to bind yourself thus solemn- 
ly, you may, without impediment or offense, retire 
from this place. The covenant is as follows, and 
to all its parts we require your decided assent. 
Let the candidate be placed in position. 

A small Bible is placed in the hands of the Candidate 
in the following manner : The hands are tightly clasped 
around it ; the back of the book presented forward, and 
as high as the breast ; the fingers interlacing each other; 
the thumbs crossing upon the edges of the cover. Be- 
ing thus prepared, the Patron will repeat the Covenant 
of Adoption. The Chapter is called up. 



INITIATION. 51 

W. P. You will carefully preserve iu sacred and 
inviolable secrecy, and under no circumstances 
improperly divulge any of the signs, passes or se- 
crets belonging to the Order of the Eastern Star. 

You will cheerfully obey the constitution and 
regulations of the Grand Chapter and the by-laAvs 
of the Chapter of which you may be a member. 

You will, so far as in your power, liberally, 
dispense to your Sisters advice in their troubles, 
sympathy in their sorrows, and aid in their mis- 
fortunes. 

You will cautiously avoid speaking evil of your 
Sisters, or performing any act of injustice or un- 
kind n ess toward them. 

Do you to all these pledges solemnly covenant 
your honor as a woman ? 

Cancl. I do. 

W. P. It is well. We cheerfully accept the 
pledge you make us. We share with you in this 
Covenant and do now receive you into our band. 
You will be conducted to the Eastern Star. 
At the various points you will receive instruc- 
tions in the characteristics of the Order. 

Sister Conductress, you will remove the vail 
from the eyes of our newly adopted Sister. 

The Conductress removes the vail and takes the 
Bible from the hands of the candidate. The Patron re- 
turns to the dais, and says : 



52 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

My Sister, you will carefully observe whatever 
passes under your notice, and let the impressive 
lessons taught in the ceremonies through which 
you are now to be inducted, sink deeply into your 
heart. 

Sister Conductress, you will now conduct our 
Sister through the intricate mazes of the labyrinth 
to the several points of the Star for further en- 
lightenment. 

The Patron calls down the Chapter. The Conductress 
places the candidate on her right, and conducts her, to the 
first point of the Star, where will be found Adah, who 
represents Jephthah's daughter. 

Cond. Sister Adah, at the request of the 
Worthy Patron, I present to you our Sister, who, 
having been inducted into the Order by the Cov- 
enant of Adoption, is to be instructed by you in 
the binding force of a vow, as illustrated in the 
history of Jephthah's daughter. 

Adah. His request shall be complied with. 

Jephthah was the ninth judge, and one of the 
mightiest men of Israel. Being called upon in the 
extremity of his country's trials to go at the head 
of its armies and resist the fierce attacks of the 
Ammonites, its enemies, he prepared his house- 
hold for a campaign that would perhaps cost him 
his life, and then, committed himself to the care of 
God in solemn prayer. "And Jephthah vowed a 



INITIATION. 



53 




JEPHTHAH MEETING HIS DAUGHTER. 



vow unto the Lord, and said : If thou shalt with- 
out fail deliver the children of Amnion into 
mine hands, then it 
shall be that what- 
soever cometh forth 
of the doors of my 
house to meet me, 
when I return in 
peace from the chil- 
dren of Amnion, 
shall surely be the 
Lord's, and I will 
offer it up for a 
burnt offering." — 
Jephthah went forth to battle, the victory was 
gained, and the warrior returned to Mizpeh, 
exulting in his success. God had redeemed his 
people. The thanks and praises of a grateful na- 
tion were freely bestowed on him. The warrior- 
father hastened home to enjoy the congratulations 
of his neighbors, and still more of his daughter, 
his only child. Arrived upon the hill which over- 
looked his dwelling, he halted. The Lord had 
"without fail delivered the children of Amnion 
into his hands," he had returned in peace to his 
home, and whatsoever "came forth of the doors 
of his house, to meet him, must be the Lord's to 
be offered up for a burnt offering." The door 



54 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

of his house opened, and " behold! his daughter 
came out to meet him with timbrels and with 
dances." Jephthah, when he saw her, rent his 
clothes and in the anguish of his heart cried aloud, 
"Alas, my daughter ! thou hast brought me very 
low. I have opened my mouth unto the Lord, and 
I cannot go back." Adah casting aside the in- 
struments of rejoicing, and with due solemnity, 
answered: "My father, if thou hast opened thy 
mouth unto the Lord, do to me according to 
that which hath proceeded out of thy mouth." 
She had but one request to make and then she 
was ready for the sacrifice. She asked that she 
might go among the mountains for two months, 
and there, with her young friends, prepare her 
mind to meet in calmness and resignation her 
impending doom. The request was granted. 

When the two months had expired, and the 
day arrived which was to bring this sad affair to 
a close, a vast multitude gathered together to 
witness the event. Precisely as the sun came 
on the meridian, she was seen, followed by a long 
train of her friends, winding their way down the 
mountain's side to the fatal spot where the altar 
was erected, and her father with an almost broken 
heart was standing, prepared to fulfil his vow. 

She approached him, and with one long kiss 
of affection bade him farewell. Taking hold of 



INITIATION. 55 

the thick mourning vail which she wore, he 
threw it gently over her face and drew his sword. 
But she rapidly unvailed herself, and said she 
needed not to have her face covered, for she 
was not afraid to die. Her father replied that 
he could not strike the blow while she looked 
upon him, and again cast it over her. She 
threw it off the second time, and turning from 
him said she would look up to the heavens, so 
that his hand should not be unnerved by the 
sight of her face, but that she would not consent 
to die in the dark. A third time, however, he in- 
sisted, and a third time she as resolutely cast it 
off, this time holding the ends of it firmly 
in her hands, and then, in the hearing of the 
multitude, she solemnly declared that if this cer- 
emony was insisted upon, she would claim the 
protection of the law and refuse the fate that 
otherwise she was willing to endure. She said 
it was the practice to cover the faces of murder- 
ers and criminals, when they were about to be 
put to death, but she was no criminal, and died 
only to save her father's honor. Again she 
averred that she would cast her eyes upward 
upon the Source of Light, and in that position 
she invited the fatal blow. It fell. Her gentle 
spirit mounted to the heavens upon which her 
last gaze had "been fixed, and so the deed was 



56 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

consummated, which has rendered the name 
of Jephthah's daughter forever famous in the 
annals of Scripture. 

The sign of the degree is given in this man- 
ner . 

The pass . 

The color appropriate to the degree is Blue, 
by which we symbolize the azure and hazy atmos- 
phere that enveloped the mountains of Judea, 
in whose caves and solitude Jephthah's daughter 
dwelt, with her companions, two months, while 
preparing for death. It also symbolizes fidelity, 
and should teach us to be faithful to all our 
obligations. 

The emblems are the Sword and Vail. By the 
sword in the hands of the father was the daughter 
slain. The vail alludes to the firmness with 
which Adah adhered to her determination to die 
in the light, suffering no stain to rest upon her 
memory after death. 

Sister Conductress, you will now conduct our 
Sister to the second point of the Star for fur- 
ther instruction. 

The Conductress proceeds -with the candidate to the 
second point of the Star, by passing to the left of the 
altar, where will be found Ruth. While the Conduc- 
tress and candidate are passing from the first to the 
second point of the Star, the following, or other appro- 
priate verse, may be sung as a solo or quartette. 



INITIATION. 



57 



_ # * » . * + (g_ 



i i r k k k k k 



^ * + + * 



-1— n H PMV 




U U k U k l k k * *~ 



N 1* N Nl " 1 — □ — V 



^-r^s^ i rg ; Fjjj z E^«L_ji ^g=ga 



■ #pf 




w* u» u* u* u* ' i* k 



58 0EDEE OP THE EASTEEN STAE. 

See 'midst the multitude the victim stands, 
Dauntless, serene, though terror palsies them ! 

And she must die by her own father's hand, 
And she must die a sacrifice of shame ! 

Of shame ? ah, no ! she flings the vail abroad ; 

Once, twice, yea, thrice ; looks hopeful to God ; 

Fixes the noon-day sun with earnest eyes, 

Then crowned with innocence the maiden dies i 

At the conclusion of the music, the Conductress will 
say : 

Cond. Sister Ruth at the request of the Worthy 
Patron, I present to you our Sister, to be in- 
structed in the devotional respect due to religious 
principles, as illustrated in the history of Ruth. 

Ruth. His request shall be complied with. 

Ruth was of the nation of Moab, an idolatrous 
people. She married a man named Mahlon, 
formerly a native of Bethlehem, who had taken 
up his residence in the land of Moab, where he 
died. He was a worshipper of God, and by his 
pious example and teachings she was converted 
to the true religion. A few happy years followed, 
and then the calamity of widowhood came upon 
her. Upon his death-bed he solemnly exhorted 
her for her soul's sake, to leave the dangerous 
company in which she would be thrown, and go 
to the city of Bethlehem, where dwelt the people 
of God. 

Immediately after his death, leaving her home 



rNITIATION. 



59 




KUTH XN" THE FIELD OF BOAZ. 



and friends, she journeyed in company with her 
aged mother-in-law to Bethlehem, where she ar- 
rived in due time, way- 
worn and so poor that 
she was compelled, for 
her own support and 
that of her friend, to 
seek some means of 
securing a livelihood. 
There was nothing, 
however, that she could 
do, save to go into the 
barley fields — for it was 
the time of harvest — 
and glean among the poorest and lowest classes 
of the people for a support. The very first at- 
tempt she made at this labor exhausted her 
strength. She had been reared in luxury, and 
the toil was too great for her. The sharp stubble 
wounded her feet. The blazing sun oppressed 
her brain. The jeers and insults of her com- 
panions alarmed and discouraged her, and just 
before the hour of noon, with only two little 
handsful of barley, as the fruits of her labor, she 
sought the shade of a tree to rest herself for a 
few moments before retiring from the field. 

At this moment Boaz, the owner of the field, 
entered. He was a pious and charitable man. 



60 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

None in Bethlehem was so rich, none more be- 
loved and honored than he. As he entered the 
field, he observed near the gleaners the form of 
one differing in garb and manners from the rest, 
and asked the overseer who sbe was. In reply he 
learned that she was a woman from Moab, who 
had asked leave to glean among the sheave.-, but 
that evidently she was unaccustomed to such 
labor, for she had been there since the sunrise, 
and had gathered but two little handsful of barley. 
This excited the kindly feelings of Boaz, and lie 
went to her to say a word of sympathy, and to 
offer her relief. 

As she saw him approach, she supposed him to 
be the owner of the field, coming to order her 
away. Ever since the morning she had met 
nothing but scorn and reproach, and she looked 
for it now. Raising her hands, therefore to show 
him how small were her gleanings, and that she 
had taken nothing from the sheaves, she placed 
them meekly upon her breast, as showing her 
willingness to submit to whatever lot she might 
be called upon to endure, and cast her eyes up- 
ward as appealing to God against the inhumanity 
of man. It was for God she had forsaken borne, 
wealth, and friends, and the disconsolate widow, 
alone in the world had none other to whom she 
could look for protection. This mute appeal was 



INITIATION. 61 

not lost upon the kind heart of Boaz. He spoke 
words of sympathy and tenderness to her. He 
encouraged her to persevere. From the provi- 
sions brought for his reapers he bade her eat and 
drink. He directed that hands ful of barley 
should be dropped on purpose in her way by the 
reapers, so that she might gather an ample 
supply; and when she returned home to her 
mother-in-law, she bore with her enough for their 
immediate necessities. 

The sign of the degree is given in this man- 
ner . 

The pass . 

The color appropriate to the degree is Yellow, 
which symbolizes the ripened grain in the 
field of Boaz, in which Ruth was an humble 
gleaner. 

The sheaf is an emblem of plenty, which from 
its distinct and minute parts, teaches us that by 
patient industry, gleaning here a little and there 
a little, we may accumulate a competency to sup- 
port us when the infirmities of age unfit us for 
the fatigues of labor. 

Sister Conductress, you will now conduct our 
Sister to the third point of the Star for further 
instruction. 

The Conductress proceeds with the candidate as he- 
fore, around the altar to the third point of the Star, 



62 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 



where will be found Esther. The following verse may 
be sung : 

JS__JS_JS_^ 



iH?Hi!l=2^!Si 






Widow, mourning for the dead, 'Midst the gold-en harvest 






> — f^-^-t 



'^HpIIil^l^Ii^ 



mourn-ing, Beats the sun thy ach - ing head ? Burns the 



— u — * — fc^-^t * — * — * 1 ' 



Hi 



stub - ble 'neath thy tread ? No kind look thy gaze re • 






=ii 



^ 



-*— N- 



- turn-ing, These poor par- eels all thy* store? Sure-ly 



!fe 



^ -^,-r 8 g g <•■ *= 



H^^^Sliiil 



N N 






God will give thee more, Sure - ly God will give thee more. 



-z=ie—e—e- 



wmwmmm 



At the conclusion of the singing, the Cond. will say : 



INITIATION. 



63 



Cond. Sister Esther, at the request of the 
Worthy Patron, I present to you our Sister, to 
be instructed in that truly beautiful virtue, fidel- 
ity to kindred and friends, as exemplified in the 
history of Esther. 

Esther. His request shall be complied with. 
Esther was a Jewish damsel. Het family 
had not returned to Judea after the permission 
given by Cyrus, and 
she was born beyond 
the Tigris, about five 
hundred years before 
the Christian era. Her 
parents being dead, 
Mordecai, her uncle, 
took charge of her edu- 
cation. After Ahas- 
uerus had divorced 
Queen Vashti, search 
was made throughout 
Persia for the most beautiful woman, and Esther 
was the one selected. She found favor in the eyes of 
the king, who married her with royal magnificence, 
bestowing largesses, and remitting of tributes. 

Her matchless beauty having attracted the 
attention of the king, her virtues secured his 
love, but her wonderful genius gained his per- 
manent admiration and respect. IsTo woman has 




ESTHER BEFORE THE KING. 



64 OKDER OP THE EASTEKN STAB 

ever left behind her such a record of wisdom as 
Esther. It is a standing tradition among her peo- 
ple that as Solomon was to men, so was Esther to 
women, the wisest of her sex. The more intimate- 
ly the king became acquainted with her mental 
powers the more he respected them. There was 
no problem of state so intricate that she was not 
able to solve. In time, she became his confidant, 
and shared with him in the greatness of his 
kingdom. These circumstances enabled her in a 
season of peril to save her nation from destruction. 

The enemies of the Jews, who were numerous 
and powerful, had brought false accusations be- 
fore the king, and persuaded him to promulgate 
an edict that, npon a fixed day, the entire race 
throughout all Persia should be exterminated. 
The chosen people of God were doomed to be extir- 
pated from the face of the country. The instrument 
to avert so great a calamity was the heroine Esther. 

No sooner did she learn of this cruel edict than 
she promptly resolved to save her people or perish 
in the same destruction. The king had often 
admitted his indebtedness to her counsels, and 
pledged his royal word to grant her any request 
she might make of him, even " to the half of the 
kingdom," and Esther now resolved to test his 
sincerity, and appeal to him, even at the risk of 
her own life. She attired herself in her white 



INITIATION. 65 

silken robes, placed a brilliant crown upon her 
head, gathered her maidens around her, and went 
boldly and in state to the palace of the king. 

It was a day of Grand Council, a gathering of 
the governors, princes, and officers of Persia. The 
dependent nations had sent in their deputations 
to pay homage and tribute, and the royal guards 
thronged the ante-chambers of the palace. It 
was a standing law of that place that none should 
enter the king's presence without summons, 
under penalty of death, and the sentinels, as the 
Queen passed, reminded her of this and warned 
her of her danger. But she bade them stand 
aside, and so, pale but firm, she passed through 
the vestibule into the great Council-chamber. 

The scene was magnificent. The king upon his 
throne of gold and ivory; the gorgeous equipages 
of his officers, and the splendor of the apartment 
itself, all made up a display rarely equaled and 
never surpassed. Through all the crowd of court- 
iers Esther boldly passed, and amidst the deathly 
silence of the observers, stood up before the 
king — pale with fasting and sleeplessness, but 
not with fear. She fastened her eye fearlessly 
upon the king, who, angry at the violation of the 
law, frowned sternly upon her. It was the crisis 
of her life. The wise woman felt it to be so, and 
at once reminded him of his former pledges by a 



66 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

method understood between them. She saw his 
golden scepter bent toward her, and hastened to 
secure her pardon by coming forward, kneeling 
and " touched the top of the scepter." Graciously 
said the king, " What wilt thou, Queen Esther ? 
and what is thy request? it shall be even given 
thee to the half of the kingdom. " The admiring 
crowd applauded the generosity of their monarch 
and as he placed her beside him on the throne, 
gave utterance to their feelings in loud expres- 
sions of admiration at her beauty, discretion and 
favor with the king. 

The sacred narrative informs us of the consum- 
mate tact with which Esther pursued the advan- 
tage she had gained. She achieved a complete 
success and saved the nation, which, to this day, 
keeps an annual festival in her honor. 

The sign of the degree is given in this manner — . 

The pass . 

The color appropriate to the degree is White, 
and alludes to the white silken robes in 
which Esther was dressed when she appeared 
before the king in the court of Persia. It is- 
emblematical of the spotless purity of her char- 
acter, and teaches us to be ever mindful of our 
rectitude of conduct in the affairs of life so as to 
be above the tongue of reproach. 

The Crown and Scepter united is an emblem of 



miTTATION. 



67 



royalty and power. It reminds us of the dig- 
nity of the king and the meek submission of 
the queenly petitioner. 

Sister Conductress, you will conduct our Sister to 
the fourth point of the Star for further instruction. 

The Conductress proceeds, as before, around the altar 
to the fourth point of the Star, to Martha. The follow- 
ing verse may be sung. 

i> > 



zs=e3=s=*^* 



See, oh King, the suppliant one, Pale and 

-- r , „ . - g- — s -£— r"^- 




trem-bling at the throne! See the gold -en crown she 



mm 



mmm^^ 




mmm 



bears, And the silk - en robe she wears; Whi-ter, 




brigh-ter than their sheen, Is the woman's soul within ! 

J* « -& -£- -r- .-^ !J* « ■? -g- -F- 



68 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 




At the conclusion of the singing, the Cond. will say : 
Cond. Sister Martha, at the request of the 
Worthy Patron, I present to you our Sister, to 
be instructed in the 
sublime virtue whereby 
we may display propel 
respect to undeviating 
faith in the hour of 
trial, as exemplified in 
the history of Martha] 
Martha. His re- 
quest shall be complied 
f with. 

The history of Mar- 
tha is that of a young 
woman, oppressed with grief at the loss of an 
only brother. The family, composed of two 
sisters, Martha and Mary, with their brother 
Lazarus, were residents of Bethany. They were 
particularly known among the people of the 
country as followers of Christ. Upon a certain 
occasion, during the absence of their Divine 
Master, Lazarus was taken suddenly and vio- 
lently ill, and in a short time died. At the close 
of the fourth day, intelligence reached them that 
Jesus was returning to Bethany. Martha hast- 
ened to meet him, fell on her knees before himl 
and raised her hands imploringly towards his 



MABTHA BEFORE CHRIST. 



INITIATION. 69 

face, and, with a voice almost suppressed with 
emotion, cried aloud: "Lord, if thou hadsfc been 
here, my brother had not died ! But I know 
that even now whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, 
God will give it thee!" 

Then said Jesus : " Thy brother shall rise 
again." She replied : ; 'I know that he shall rise 
again in the resurrection at the last day." 

Jesus said unto her: "I am the resurrection, 
and the life ; he that believeth in me, though he 
were dead, yet shall he live ; and whosoever 
liveth and believeth in me shall never die. 
Believest thou this ? " 

The sign of the degree is given in this man- 
ner . 

The pass . 

The color appropriate to the degree is Green, 
emblematical of the immutable nature of Truth 
and its victory. The Evergreen is the symbol of 
our faith in the immortality of the soul, and the 
realization of an everlasting happiness beyond 
the grave. The Broken Column is an expressive 
emblem of the uncertainty of human existence, 
and the outward evidence of the decease of a 
yonng man cut down in the vigor of life. 

Sister Conductress, you will now conduct our 
Sister to the fifth point of the Star for further 
instruction. 



70 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 



The Conductress will proceed, as before around the 
altar to the fifth point of the Star, where will be found 
Electa. The following verse may be sung. 



immmmmmmwmm 



Raise thy hands a-bove, sweet mourner, Hi-h - er 




s^ 



high - er, toward the throne! Ah, he sees thee, 

£ -rrrJt , - 



—I hi- L-i I J 



1^ 



-i •^-* — -S- ■ -*■ g ■ -g- 

hears thy sto-ry, Hears and feels that plaintive moan. 



-t+= u.-tp 1 — L -> , » ' \ — a 



At the conclusion of the singing, the Cond. will say : 

Cond. Sister Electa, at the request of the 
Worthy Patron, I present to you our Sister, to 
be instructed in the ever commendable virtue of 
patience and submission under wrongs, as exem- 
plified in the history of Electa. 

Electa. His request shall be complied with. 

Electa was a lady of high repute in the land 
of Judea, of noble family, wealthy and accom- 
plished, who lived in the days of St. John the 
Evangelist, and was remarkable for her profuse 



rNlTIATIOJST. 



71 




IXECTA AND ST. JOHN. 



benevolence to the poor. Electa had been edu- 
cated in accordance with the times and customs 
of the people who 
ruled the affairs of 
the country in which 
she lived. The idols 
of Home were the only 
gods she had been 
taught to worship. 
Like Ruth, however, 
she had been rescued 
from the direful in- 
fluence of heathenism, 
and from the abomi- 
nations of that sinful system. Soon after the con- 
version of many of the people to the doctrines of 
Christ, she became converted to the belief of his 
power to save those who repented of their sins. 
She professed before the world her faith in the 
despised Nazarene, though she well knew that to 
do so was to expose herself to reproaches, to per- 
secution, and probably to death. 

Her splendid mansion became a house of 
abode to weary and persecuted pilgrims ; her 
immense wealth was devoted to their relief. 
The poorest of the flock — the poverty-stricken 
and foot-sore beggar — coming up the great 
avenue to the door, was met as the father met 



72 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

his prodigal son. She ran out hastily to meet 
him, took him warmly by the hand and wel- 
comed him. She led him to the best apartment, 
refreshed him with the choicest wine, supplied 
him with wholesome food, cheered and clothed 
her guest, nor suffered him to depart until he 
was strengthened for his perilous journey. — 
Throughout all the country her name was 
famous as the philanthropic, the benevolent, and 
the affectionate Electa. During this time, and 
while she was preparing for a better world, and 
for a fate which, though protracted, was eventu- 
ally to come upon her, a fearful persecution 
began, and any one who confessed the name of 
Jesus was required to recant and deny his faith, 
or suffer the penalty of the law then promulga- 
ted through the country. Electa was visited 
by a band of Eoman soldiers, whose chief officer 
proposed the test of "casting a cross on the 
ground and putting her foot upon it," where- 
upon he would report her recantation, and she 
be saved from a painful and ignominious death. 
She refused, and her family were cast into a 
dungeon and kept there one year. Then the 
Eoman judge, who had often partaken of her 
hospitality, and who was anxious to befriend her, 
came and offered her another opportunity to 
recant, promising that if she would do so she 



INITIATION. 



73 



would be protected. Again she refused, and this 
brought the drama to a speedy close. The whole 
family, with thousands of others, were put to a 
cruel death. While she was expiring and about 
to pass "to the better land," she prayed with her 
dying breath : "Father, forgive them, for they 
know not what they do ! " 

The sign of the degree is given in this man- 
ner . 

The pass . 

The color appropriate to the degree is Bed, 
which symbolizes fervency, and alludes to the 
noble generosity of Electa, displayed toward the 
poor and persecuted of her faith. 

The emblem is the Cup, which reminds us of 
the generous hospitality of Electa, excited by the 
view of poverty and distress. 

Sister Conductress, you will conduct our Sister 
to the Worthy Patron for further instruction. 

The Conductress leads the candidate to the East, mak- 
ing the circuit of the altar. The following verse may 
be sung : 

4- 




74 



ORDER OP THE EASTERN STAR. 



gloom a - round, Where shall we fix the hea - vy ey6 



w^wmmm^m^wmm 



In all this mor - tal bound ? "What em-blem hath the 



§^Hia@p 




^=n^= 



^mmm 



f-zb-i- 



mourn - er here ? What love to warm, what light to cheer ? 



mm 



mm 



Jp = l» 4r^ ll 



At the conclusion of the singing, the Conductress says : 
Cond. Worthy Patron, again I present to you 
our Sister, who has, according to our direction, 
passed through the labyrinth and to the several 
points of our bright Star, where she has been 
taught those truly sublime virtues exemplified in 
the lives of Jephthah's daughter, Ruth, Esther, 
Martha, and Electa. You will further enlighten 
her by portraying a more complete knowledge of 
the ceremonies and beauties of our Order. 

W. P* We hail with true pleasure your com- 
ing among us. The great work in which we 



INITIATION. 75 

are engaged is sufficient for us all, and we shall 
rejoice to find you excelling in your zeal that of 
the most devoted members of our society. In 
the further progress of our ceremonies you will 
give attention to the remarks of our Worthy 
Matron. 

W. M. My dear Sister, for by that endearing 
title you will hereafter be known among us, in 
behalf of — Chapter, jS^o. .., I cordially welcome 
you to a partici}3ation in our privileges. 

We are laboring to increase our own happiness 
and to promote that of others. Our experience 
and the wisdom we gain from the Scriptures, alike 
teach us that this world is a harsh, unfriendly 
scene, poorly adapted to impart felicity, and that 
it is chiefly by combining the efforts of the good 
and true, in the work of morality and religion, 
that happiness is to be acquired and extended. 
The greater our ability to do good, the more 
pleasure we shall enjoy. 

Our meetings, like the family circle, are held 
in private, that we may arrange our plans for the 
good work in which we are engaged, without 
interruption from those who cannot understand 
or sympathize with us. Here, we strive to learn 
our duty as beings who possess an immortal part, 
and, when we return home and before the world, 
it should be our earnest care to perform it. We 



76 ORDER, OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

cultivate a spirit of harmony that the enemy of 
souls may gain no advantage over us. And as a 
large portion of our work lies in acquiring a 
knowledge of how best to practise the great mural 
principles, sisterly love, relief, and truth, and in 
endeavoring to find the true path that leads to 
everlasting life, we often unite to address the 
Heavenly Throne, and to plead with God that 
the very spirit of faith and wisdom may descend 
upon us and make our meeting-place a place like 
Heaven. In such a prayer let us now, with our 
Worthy Patron, cheerfully join. 

The Patron calls up the Chapter ; all the members 
step forward, except the Conductress and candidate, and 
joining hands, form a circle around the altar, leaving 
a space next, and at the left of the W. Matron, for 
the Conductress and candidate. The Conductress with, 
the candidate at her right, will take a position between 
the dais and the circle, facing the West, The Patron, 
at the altar, on the west side, facing the East. When 
he shall have reached the words in the Prayer, "golden 
chain thus lengthened," the W. Matron extends her 
left hand, taking the right hand of the candidate, and 
draws her and the Conductress into the circle, making 
the chain complete. At the words, " each link shall fall 
away in death," all drop hands and remain standing 
until close of prayer and singing. 

PRATER. 
W. P. Source of all Wisdom, Truth, and Love ! 
Grant to us that, in the reception of this person, 



DsITIATIO^. 



77 



we may add strength, to our strength, and grace 
to our grace. Oh, may the golden chain thus 
lengthened become the brighter for this link, 
and be strengthened for the great work we do. 
Enlarge our powers to benefit mankind and to 
honor Thee, our God. And when, one by one, 
each link shall fall away in death, may the parting 
be temporary and the meeting eternal. In the 
world where death comes not, may we realize the 
full happiness of loving and serving Thee forever. 
Amen. 

Immediately after the Prayer, the following, or other 
suitable music, may be introduced. 
Largamente. 




78 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 




blight - ed heart re - lief! Send this blighted heart re- 




ESTITTATIOX 




80 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 



At the conclusion of the singing, the Patron returns to 
the East, calls the Chapter to order, and continues the 
ceremonies, with the following 

LECTURE TO THE CANDIDATE. 

W. P. My Sister, in taking upon yourself the 
solemn vows of our Order, you enter upon a new 
phase of life; you will henceforth be numbered 
among this beautiful Sisterhood, who have for 
their inspiration the Star of Bethlehem, which 
will guide all the faithful to the New Jerusalem 
— that city not made with hands. 

I must remind you that with the privileges 
come the responsibilities. You have been in- 
formed that we are associated together, that we 
may comfort, aid, and protect each other in this 
our earthly pilgrimage; that our duties to each 
other are simply labors of love. The covenant 
of adoption has been rehearsed for } t ou, which 
you have promised faithfully to keep. 

The responsibilities of the Order, therefore, rest 
lightly upon the faithful, and we trust that you 



INITIATION. 81 

will bear them with that meekness and grace 
which is found only with the good and true. 

You were informed when you first entered this 
Chapter room, that we were in possession of cer- 
tain signs, passes, and secrets, by means of which 
we were enabled to recognize each other wherever 
we might meet, and that we propose to put you 
in possession of these secrets, that you too might 
be recognized as a member of the Order. You 
have already been conducted to the several points 
of the Star, where you have received instructions 
as promised. The signs and passes spoken of 
were then explained, which, if properly under- 
stood, will enable you to make yourself known 
as a member. 

There are five degrees in this Order, which all 
initiates receive: The first, that of Adah) the 
Daughter's; second, that of Ruth, the Widoto's; 
third, that of Esther, the Wife's; fourth, that of 
Martha, the Sister's; fifth, that of Electa, the 
Mother's. On undergoing an examination, you 
will be required to give certain answers to par- 
ticular questions, and these questions will be 
asked in the order the degrees were received by 
you. That you may comprehend the whole work 
of examination, I will, with the assistance of our 
Conductress,* now rehearse it. You will care- 

* This work may be done with the W. Matron or the Conductress; 
the latter is preierable. 



82 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR 

fully observe my questions and her answers, as 
they would be your answers were you under- 
going an examination. 

W. P. Sister Conductress, are you a member of 
the Order of the Eastern Star? 

Cond. I ****** * 4 

W. P. What * * * ? 

Cond. I *****. 

W. P. What evidence can you give to prove 
yourself a member of the Order of the Eastern 
Star? 

Cond. I have signs, passes, and 

. . mottoes, one of them a general, the other a 
special * * * *, a * * * *, and a * * * *. 

W. P. Please give the signs and passes and 
explain them. 

Cond. The first is that of Adah ; it is given in 
this manner. — (Gives sign.) 

The pass * * *. Color blue, represented in the 
formation of our emblematical star, by the violet. 

The second is that of Ruth, given in this 
manner. — (Gives sign.) 

The pass * * *. Color yellow, represented by 
the yellow jasmine. 

The third is that of Esther — given in this 
manner. — ( Gives sign. ) 

The pass * * *. Color white, represented by 
the white lily. 



INITIATION. 83 

The fourth is that of Martha— given in this 
man ner. — ( G ives sig n . ) 

The pass * * *. Color green, represented hy 
the pine leaf. 

The fifth is that of Electa — given in this man- 
ner. — (Gives sign.) 

The pass * * *. Color red, represented by the 
red rose. 

The sixth is the sign of salutation, and is given 
by a member, entering or retiring from a Chap- 
ter while at work. Members giving this sign 
should advance between the altar and Associate 
Matron, and ****** * ? make a slight bow, 
retire, or take their seats, as the case may require. 

W.P. What is the general motto? 

Concl. !*************. 

W. P. What is the special motto ? 

\0 11 fl 

W. P. Whence did this special motto take its 
rise? 

W. M. From the five heroines of the Order — 

Adah, because she freely sacrificed her life to 
save her father's honor. 

Ruth, because she willingly left home and 
friends, to dwell with the people of God. 

Esther, because she was prepared to render up 
her crown, and even life itself, to save her people 
from destruction. 



84 ORDER OP THE EASTERN STAR. 

Martha, from her undeviating faith in the 
power and merits of her Redeemer. 

Electa, because she preferred to suffer death 
rather than deny her religious belief. These 
were ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ 

W. P. To what word did you refer ? 

Cond. The cabalistic word, which in an exami- 
nation should be alternated, I commencing with 
F. (Using the words signified foj the letters.) 

W. P. A. &c, &c. 

Cond. This, Worthy Patron, is all I have to 
offer, except the grip. 

W. P. Which you will now give to the can- 
didate. — (Gives it.) 

The Patron, addressing the candidate, will say : 

This, my Sister, completes the work, with the 
exception of the explanation of the signet. The 
cabalistic word is so called from its relation to 
the star; its place is always on the block, forming 
the base of the star. It is a chain word, holding 
and binding together the five points of our em- 
blematic star. (The Patron will point to the sig- 
net.) Its position on the signet is important, as 
it forms a part of the lesson of examination. 

This concludes the ceremonies of initiation. 
You will now be conducted to the Secretary's 
desk, where you will sign the by-laws, and then 
be re-conducted to your present position. 



INITIATION. 85 

The Conductress leads the candidate to the Secre- 
tary's desk, where she signs the by-laws, and returns 
with her to the East. The Chapter is called up by the 
Patron, who says : 

W. P. The candidate will face the West. Sis- 
ters and Brethren, of Chapter, No. . . > 

our Worthy Sister has passed through the several 
degrees of our Order, we hope with some pleasure 
to herself, we know with great satisfaction to us. 
You will, therefore, give her a hearty welcome. 

The Patron resumes his station and places the Chapter 
in charge of the W. Matron, who will say : 

W. M. Sister Associate Matron. 

A. M. Worthy Matron? 

W. M. You will call the Chapter to recreation, 
to resume at the sound of the gavel in the East. 

A. M, Sisters and Brethren, by order of the 
Worthy Matron, you will now be at recreation, 
to resume at the sound of the gavel in the East. 

The Conductress or the W. Matron will introduce the 
candidate to the members, who should receive her kindly, 
with words of welcome, etc. After which, the W. 
Matron will call the Chapter to order, proceed with the 
ordinary business, and finally close the Chapter in form. 



INITIATION OF A MASTER MASON. 



A gentleman, known to be a Master MasoD, having 
been proposed and elected in a Chapter, presents himself 
in the preparation room. The order ' ' Initiation " having 
been reached, the W. Matron will say : 

W. M. Sister Associate Conductress, you will 
retire and' ascertain if there are any candidates 
in waiting, and report to the Worthy Patron. 

The A. C. retires, and finding a gentleman candidate 
in the ante-room, ascertains his name, returns to the 
Chapter room, and says : 

A. C. Worthy Patron, I find in waiting Mr. 
{naming the person), who is, I am informed, a 
Master Mason, and therefore entitled to receive 
the light and knowledge of our Order. 

The Patron will take charge of the Chapter, and, turn- 
ing to the Secretary, says : 

W. P. Sister Secretary, has the petition of 

Bro been received in open Chapter, and has 

he been elected ? 

Sec. He has. 

W. P. Sister Associate Conductress, you will 
again retire and introduce the candidate, first 
giving the usual alarm at the door of the prepa- 
ration room. 



INITIATION OF A MASTER MASON. 87 

The A. C. retires, receives the candidate, and gives the 
usual alarm at the inner door. The Cond. rising in her 
station, says : 

Cond. Worthy Patron, there is an alarm at the 
door of the preparation room. 

W. P. Sister Conductress, ascertain the cause 
of the alarm. 

The Cond. goes to the door, gives the usual alarm, 
opens the door, and says : 

Cond. Who knocks at the door of our Chapter ? 

A. C. The Associate Conductress, with a can- 
didate, who is desirous of receiving the light and 
knowledge of our Order. 

Cond. {To the candidate?) Are you willing to 
assume our obligation of secrecy, and faithfully 
to perform the duties imposed by the laws of our 
Order? 

Cand. I am. 

Cond. You will wait until the Worthy Patron 
is informed of your request. 

The Cond. closing the door, says to the Patron : 

Cond. Worthy Patron, the alarm was made 
by the Associate Conductress, with, a candidate 
who is desirous of receiving the light and knowl- 
edge of our Order. 

W. P. Has he answered the necessary questions ? 

Cond. He has. 

W. P. Admit him. 



88 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

The Cond. opens the door and says : 

Cond. It is the order of the Worthy Patron 
that this candidate be admitted. 

As the candidate enters, the Conductress leads him to 
the West, and says : 

Cond. Sister Associate Matron, I have the 
pleasure of introducing Mr , to be pre- 
sented by you to the Worthy Patron. He is de- 
sirous of receiving the light and knowledge of 
our Order, and will pledge his honor in our obli- 
gation of secrecy. 

A. M. My friend, you are heartily welcome. 
Cause the candidate to face the East. 

He is placed near the star, facing the East, when the 
A. Matron will say : 

A. M. Worthy Patron, I have the honor of 

presenting to you Mr , whose petition has 

been accepted by this Chapter, and who is desir- 
ous of receiving the light and knowledge of our 
Order. 

W. P. Brother , it is with pleasure that 

I welcome you into the Order, and especially as 
a member of this Chapter. The grand purposes 
of the Order are beneficent and social ; its lessons 
are scriptural ; its teachings are moral ; its obli- 
gations are mutual to all its members, and are 
based upon the universal principle that, whatever 



INITIATION OF A MASTER MASON. 89 

benefits are due by the Masonic Fraternity to 
the wives, mothers, widows, daughters and sis- 
ters of Masons, corresponding benefits are due 
from them to the Brotherhood. To enable us to 
properly apply these purposes to the best ad- 
vantage, we make use of certain signs and cere- 
monies, by means of which we recognize those 
who belong to and have a just claim upon us, 
and mutually bind ourselves by an obligation, 
not only to secrecy, but to the faithful perform- 
ance of the duties that devolve upon us as mem- 
bers of this Order. 

With this knowledge of its aims and purposes, 
are you willing to assume the obligations and 
responsibilities appertaining to this Order? 

The candidate answers, and, if in the affirmative, the 
Patron calls up the Chapter, and repeats the obligation, 
to which the candidate assents. The Patron returns to 
the dais and seats the Chapter. If the candidate has 
never received the signs, passes, etc., he may be brought 
to the East, and instructed. When time will permit, 
the following may be rehearsed as a 

CHARGE TO THE CANDIDATE. 

My Brother, I congratulate you on being found worthy 
to become a member of this respectable association ; a 
few reflections, therefore, as to its objects and princi- 
ples, may not be deemed inappropriate at this time. 

When, in the vicissitudes of life, we are called upon 
to assume new and untried duties, a sense of responsi- 
bility comes over our minds. We ask ourselves, "How 
far do these new obligations lead us ? Why have we 



90 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

taken them ? In what way will they contribute to our 
own happiness, and to the good of those around us ? It 
shall be my pleasant duty now to answer these ques- 
tions so far as the Eastern Star may lead us. 

The Order of the Eastern Star has no purpose or de- 
sign save that of promoting happiness. Its secrets are 
devised only that, by their aid, we may have additional 
means of distinguishing the good and true from the base 
and vile. Its source is the ever-flowing spring* of re- 
vealed truth. Its heroines are selected from the best of 
those described in the inspired volume. Its colors sug- 
gest nothing but the purest thoughts. Its emblems are 
borrowed from those that in Scripture foreshadow the 
life and the house of Almighty God. 

Where in human history will you find five female 
characters so worthy to be combined into a Star, as 
Jephthah's daughter, Ruth, Esther, Martha and Electa ? 
Can we look for greater excellence, more heroic virtues, 
or deeds of higher renown, than those that make up the 
narrative of their lives ? Adah, daughter of Jephthah, 
loved her father with so great a love that she gave her 
young life a ransom for his spotless fame. Ruth, ani- 
mated by spiritual zeal, left all earthly joys, that she 
might share the companionship of saints upon earth. 
Esther rejected the vanities and pride of a royal estate 
to rescue her people from the hand of the slayer. Mar- 
tha saw through the cloud of death the assurance of 
the resurrection, and meekly accepted the promise of 
her Divine Friend. Electa, summing up the merits and 
heroism of all the five, yielded her body to the cross, 
that she might give evidence that she was the child of 
God. And now the wisest, purest, noblest of womankind 
may accept these five characters as models of all that 
women can be in this life and in the life to come. 



INITIATION OF A MASTER MASON. 91 

The affecting and perfect narrations are made graceful 
by colors that both delight the eye and inform the sense. 
The Blue, consecrated to Jephthah's daughter, takes its 
tinge from the cerulean sky, under which the mountain 
maid spent the days of her happy youth. 

The Yellow, consecrated to Ruth, borrows its golden 
tint equally from the glaring sun above and the ripened 
corn below, between which throbbed the faithful heart 
of that matchless damsel of Moab. 

The White, consecrated to Esther, suggests the dignity 
which the heroic queen so cheerfully laid aside to pre- 
serve God's chosen race from extinction. 

The Green, consecrated to Martha, leads the chastened 
spirit through and beyond the grave to all that is ani- 
mating in the thought of a bright resurrection. 

The Red, consecrated to Electa, suggests the hospital- 
ity inculcated in all the teachings of our Order. 

Now, blend these five colors into one ; embody them 
through leaf, and bud, and blossom, in a bright bouquet 
of flowers ; let them flash forth in precious stones and 
enamel ; produce them in the chaste and tasty regalia 
of the Order, and this world does not produce anything 
better calculated to attract and instruct the intelligent 
mind. 

Sisters and Brethren, the vows you have taken are 
only those whose keeping will make you wiser, better, 
happier. Our chains are wreathed with flowers. Our 
duties are sweetened by love. Over us all there hangs 
the great reward promised by Him whose star in the 
East we have seen and whom we have come to worship. 

My Brother, you will now sign the by-laws of this Chap- 
ter, which entitles you to full membership, with all the 
benefits thereof, and subject to all its penalties. 



OPENING ODES. 



Am — One Day Nearer Home. 
Begin the work of praise, 
The joys of song begin, 
And bid the mystical rays 
To enter in. 

Cho.— The gleaming light, the guiding light, 
The light that shines afar ; 
It yields a radiance pure and bright, 
The beautiful, beautiful Star. 

It tells of deathless Love, 

And Faith, and Hope sublime ; 
It lifts the soul above 

All things of time. 

Cho. — The gleaming light, etc. 

Then let the song of praise 

Our evening tasks begin ; 
And bid the mystical rays 

To enter in. 
Cho. — The gleaming light, etc. 



Ant— St. Ann's. C. M. 
Supreme in wisdom as in power 

The Star of Ages stands : 
Thou canst not search his mind, nor trace 

The working of his hands. 

He gives the conquest to the weak, 

Supports the fainting heart ; 
And courage in the evil hour 

His heavenly aids impart. 

On eagles' wings they mount, they soar 

On wings of Faith and Love, 
Till, past the sphere of earth and sin, 

They rise to heaven above. 



OPENING ODES. 93 

Are — Yieary Wanderer. 
Weary wand'rer o'er the main, 
Seeking for thy home again, 
Through the gath'ring mists that rise, 
Vailing thy natal skies ; 
Look beyond, there's light for thee, 
Streaming o'er the turbid sea ; 

Softly it smiles, though distant far, 

The beautiful Eastern Star. 

Stranger on a rocky strand, 
Longing for thy father-land, 
Through the gath'ring clouds that rise, 
Vailing thy natal skies ; 
Look beyond, there's hope for thee, 
Dawning o'er the tranquil sea ; 

Softly it smiles, though distant far, 

The beautiful Eastern Star. 

Lonely watcher, pale with grief, 
Thou shalt find a sweet relief ; 
Though thy tears unheeded fall, 
Heaven will bless them all ; 
Look beyond, there's joy for thee, 
Breaking o'er a troubled sea ; 

Softly it smiles, though distant far, 

The beautiful Eastern Star. 



. Aie — Beautiful Star. 
There's a beautiful star, a beautiful star, 
The weary travelers have followed far, 
Shining so brightly all the way, 

Till it stood o'er the place where the young child lay. 
Cho. — Star, Star, beautiful Star ! 
Pilgrims weary we are ; 

To Heaven, to Heaven, 
We'll follow thee from afar. 

In the land of the East, in the shadows of night, 

We saw the glory of thy new light, 

Telling us, in our distant home, 

The King-Redeemer to earth had come. — Cho. 



94 ORDER OP THE EASTERN STAR. 

Air — Ancient of Days. 

God bless our glorious Star, 
Long may it beam afar I 

God bless our Star ! 
Give us this brilliant light, 
To guide by day or night, 
Like Israel's pillar bright, — 

God bless our Star! 

Refulgent light divine, 
Oh, never cease to shine 

Upon this land! 
Wisdom in thee we find, 
Beauty and strength combin'd, 
With friends together join'd, 

In heart and hand. 

Let all who love its light, 
In joyous strains unite 

To praise our Star. 
Long may it brightly gleam, 
Queen of the azure stream, 
Echo the blissful theme, 

God bless our Star! 



Am — Coronation. C. M. 

Almighty Parent, deign to bless, 

With thy protecting care, 
And cause each heart assembled here, 

To feel thy presence near. 

Our Alma then shall form a shield, 

To guard from every ill, 
And lead us all bv mystic rites 

Each duty to fulfill. 

Hosannah ! let our prayers arise, 
To Him who rules our state ; 

Let every trusting, virtuous mind 
His precepts emulate. 



OPKNING ODES. 95 

Am — Dennis. S. M. 

Kind Father ! hear our prayer ; 

We bow before thy throne ; 
Oh, may we find acceptance there, 

And peace before unknown ! 

Within these walls may Peace 

And Harmony be found ; 
May Faith and Charity increase, 

And Hope and Love abound. 



Air — Azmon. C. M. 

God ! we lift our hearts to thee, 

And grateful voices raise ; 
We thank thee for this joyful day; 

Accept our humble praise. 

Here may our souls delight to bless 
The God of truth and grace, 

Who crowns our labors with success, 
Among the rising race ! 

May each unholy passion cease, 
Each evil thought be crushed ; 

Each anxious care that mars our peace 
In Faith and Love be hushed ! 



Air — Manoah. C. M. 

Within our Chapter met again, 
With hearts and purpose strong, 

We'll raise our notes of grateful praise, 
With union in our song. 

. Around our altar's sacred shrine, 

May Love's pure incense rise, 
Bearing upon its mystic flame 
Our music to the skies. 



9G ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

Air — Wimborne. L. M. 
Supreme Grand Patron ! God of power, 
Be with us in this happy hour : 
Smile on our work, our plans approve, 
Fill every heart with hope and love. 

Let each discordant thought be gone, 
And love unite our hearts in one : 
May we in union strong combine, 
In work and worship so divine I 



CLOSING ODES. 



Air — Home, Sweet Home. 
The Star we have followed now sinks in the west, 
But leaves in our hearts all its memories blest, 
As spring yields to summer, yet fades not its bloom, 
So bear we these memories joyfully home. 

Home, home, sweet, sweet home ! 
We praise thee, our Father, who giveth a home. 

When called from earth's labor to lands far away, 
Where sorrow is pleasure and darkness is day, 
May all now departing in harmony come, 
And bloom in God's presence with angels at home. 

Home, home, sweet, sweet home ! 
We praise thee, our Father, who giveth a home. 



Air — StockweU. 8s & 7 s. 
Part in peace ! with deep thanksgiving, 

Off'ring, as we homeward tread, 
Gracious service to the living, 

Tranquil memory to the dead. 

Part in peace ! such are the praises 
God, our Maker, loveth best ; 

Such the worship that upraises 
Human hearts to heavenly rest. 



CLOSING ODES. 97 

Ant— Golden EiU. S. M. 
A charge to keep I have, 

A God to glorify : 
A never-dying soul to save, 

And fit it for the sky. 

Arm me with jealous care, 

As in thy sight to live : 
And oh ! thy servant, Lord, prepare 

A strict account to give. 

Help me to watch and pray, 

And on thyself rely : 
Assured, if 1 my trust betray, 

I shall forever die. 



Air — Old Hundred, or Hamburg. L. M. 

As from this place we go once more, 
Thy blessing, Father, we implore: 
Still may we keep the heavenly way, 
And strive to serve thee day by day. 

And till again we gather here, 
Help us to labor in thy fear ; 
Thy truth impart, thy love distill, 
That we may know and do thy wiLL 



Air— StockweU. 8s & 7s. 

Lo ! the day at last declineth, 
Gather fast the shades of night, 

Yet the sun that ever shineth 

Fills our souls with heavenly light. 

While Thine ear of love addressing, 
Thus our parting hymn we sing, 

Father, with thine evening blessing, 
Rest we safe beneath thy wing. 



98 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

Air— State Street. S. M. 

Blest be the tie that binds 
Our hearts in ardent love : 

The fellowship of kindred minds 
Is like to that above. 

Before our Father's throne 
We pour our fervent prayers : 

Oar fears, our hopes, our aims are one, 
Our comforts and our cares. 

A glorious hope revives 
Our courage by the way, 

While each in expectation lives, 
And longs to see the day. 



Air — Betreat. L. M. 

Come, sisters, ere to-night we part, 
Join every voice and every heart : 
One solemn hymn to God we'll raise, 
One closing song of grateful praise. 

Here, sisters, we may meet no more, 
But there is yet a happier shore ; 
And there, released from toil and pain, 
Dear sisters, we shall meet again. 

Oh ! may His love, with sweet control, 
Bind every passion of my soul ; 
Bid every vain desire depart, 
And dwell forever in my heart. 



Doxology. 

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow ; 
Praise him, all creatures here below ; 
Praise him above, ye heavenly host ; 
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. 



INAUGURATION ODES. 



Am — Duke Street, or Ward. 
Pour out thy Spirit from on high ; 

Lord ! thine assembled servants bless ; 
Graces and gifts to each supply, 

And clothe us with thy righteousness. 

Within this temple, where we stand 
To teach the Truth as taught by thee, 

In favor bless this chosen band, 
With friendship, love, and unity. 

And when our work is finished here, 
May we in hope our charge resign ; 

When thou, Grand Patron, shalt appear, 
May we and all mankind be thine. 



Ant — Old Hundred. 

Lord, can'st thou deign to own and bless 
This humble dome, this sacred place ? 
Oh ! let thy Spirit's presence shine 
Within these walls — this house of thine. 

'Twas reared in honor of thy name ; 
Here kindle, Lord, the sacred flame : 
Oh ! make it burn in every heart, 
And never from this place depart. 

Lord, here the wants of all supply, 
And fit our souls to dwell on high ; 
From service in this humble place, 
Raise us to praise thee face to face. 



INITIATION. 



AT RECEPTION OF CANDIDATE. 

Am — Arlington. C. M. 
Spirit of Power and Might ! behold 

Thy willing servant here ; 
With thy protection her infold, 

And free her heart from fear. 

Tho' darksome skies shall o'er her lowe 

And dangers fill the way, 
Support her with thy gracious power, 

And be her constant stay. 



Am — Hebron, L. M. 
Far from the world's cold strife and pride, 

Come, join our peaceful, happy band ; 
Come, stranger, we your feet will guide, 

Where Truth and Love shall hold command. 

Then may you in our labors join, 

And prove yourself a sister true ; 
All sordid, selfish cares resign, 

And keep our sacred truths in view. 



BURIAL HYMNS. 
Am — Ward. L. M. 

Teach us, Lord, our days to sum, 
That we to wisdom may incline 

What steps of life are yet to come ; 
What gloomy steps of pain aud sin. 

'Tis ours to know that we must die, 
Oh, teach us, Lord, how best to live ; 

Thy love with greater power display, 
Thy grace in larger measure give. 



BURIAL HYMNS. 101 

Air— Putnam or Mi. Vernon. $8 & Is. 

DEATH OF A YOUNG LADY. 

Sister, thou wast mild and lovely, 

Gentle as the summer breeze, 
Pleasant as the air of evening, 

When it floats among the trees. 

Peaceful he thy silent slumber- 
Peaceful in the grave so low ; 

Thou no more shalt join our number ; 
Thou no more our songs shall know. 

Dearest sister, thou hast left us ; 

Here thy loss we deeply feel ; 
But 'tis God that hath bereft us, 

He can all our sorrows heal. 

Yet again we hope to meet thee, 

When the day of life is fled, 
Then, in heaven, with joy we greet thee, 

Where no farewell tear is shed. 



Air — Duke Street. L. M. 

Unveil thy bosom, faithful tomb. 
Take this new treasure to thy trust, 

And give these sacred relics room 
To slumber in the silent dust. 

Nor pain, nor grief, nor anxious fear, 
Invade thy bounds ; no mortal woes 

Can reach the silent sleepers here, 
And angels watch their soft repose. 

Break from thy throne, illustrious mom ; 

Attend, Earth, his sovereign word ; 
Eestore thy trust, a glorious form ; 

Let her ascend to meet her Lord. 



102 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

Bock of Ages. 

Eock of Ages, cleft for me, 

Let ine hide myself in thee ; 

Let the water and the blood, 

From thy side, a healing Hood, 

Be of sin the double cure, 

Save from wrath and make me pure. 

Should my tears for ever flow, 
Should my zeal no languor know, 
This for sin could not atone, 
Thou must save, and thou alone ; 
In my hand no price I bring, 
Simply to thy cross I cling. 

While I draw this fleeting breath, 
When my eyelids close in death, 
When I rise to worlds unknown, 
And behold thee on thy throne ; 
Eock of Ages, cleft for me, 
Let me hide myself in thee. 



ArR— Woodland. C. M. 

DEATH OF A YOUNG PERSON. 

Calm on the bosom of thy God, 
Young spirit, rest thee* now ! 

E'en while with us thy footsteps trod, 
His seal was on thy brow. 

Dust, to its narrow house beneath ! 

Soul, to its place on high ! 
They that have seen thy look in death, 

No more may fear to die. 

Lone are the paths, and sad the bowers, 
Whence thy meek smile is gone ; 

But oh ! a brighter home than ours, 
In heaven is now thine own. 



BURIAL HYMNS. 103 

Ant — PleyeVs Hymn. 7s. 

Softly, sadly, bear lier forth. 

To her dark and silent bed ; 
Weep not that she's lost to earth, 

Weep not that her spirit's fled. 

This our sister gone before, 

May we in remembrance keep ; 
Hoping, as time passes o'er, 

We shall meet where none e'er weep. 

One last look— one parting sigh, 

Ah, too sad for words to tell ; 
Yet, though tears may dim each eye, 

Hope we still, and sigh farewell ! 



Ant — Shirland. S. M. **- 

Companion ! thou hast gone ! 

Rest from thy loved employ — 
The glorious victory thou hast won, 

Enter thy Master's joy. 

The pains of death are past ; 

Labor and sorrow cease ; 
Life's pilgrimage is closed at last, 

The soul is found in peace. 

May we, who linger here, 
E'er true and faithful be ; 

Devoted, in our humble sphere, 
Devoted, Lord, to thee 1 



ELECTIONS. 



The elective officers of a Chapter are the Worthy 
Patron, Worthy Matron, Associate Matron, Treasurer, 
Secretary, Conductress, and Associate Conductress, who 
shall be elected annually, by ballot, by a majority of the 
members present, at the stated meeting next preceding 
December 27 (festival of St. John the Evangelist), and 
should be installed on the same or at the next stated 
meeting. 

The appointed officers are the Warder, Adah, Ruth, 
Esther, Martha, Electa, and the Sentinel, who shall be 
appointed by the Worthy Matron, at the time of her in- 
stallation. 

In case of the death, absence, or other disability of the 
Worthy Matron to preside, the Associate Matron will, of 
right, assume the position and responsibilities of the 
Chair. If these officers are absent or unable to attend 
the meetings of the Chapter, the Patron will appoint 
members to preside during their temporary or perma- 
nent absence, until the next annual election. 

Vacancies in the elective offices, except the Patron, 
Matron, and Associate Matron (who cannot resign), may 
be filled by ballot, at a stated meeting, the members 
having been summoned for that purpose. Vacancies in 
the appointed offices may be filled by the Worthy Matron 
at a regular meeting. 



ANNUAL INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS. 



At every annual election in a subordinate Chapter, it 
is necessary that the officers should be installed. The 
ceremony may be performed by a Present or Past 
Patron. The officers having been constitutionally elect- 
ed and the Chapter being open, the Worthy Patron of 
the last year, or a Grand officer, may be selected, takes 
the chair, and appoints a lady Marshal, who will be 
assisted by the W. Patron elect. 

The official jewels should be collected and placed on 
the altar for convenience. If the Installation should be 
public, the Chapter may be opened as usual, omitting 
such parts of the ceremonies as are not proper to be per- 
formed in the presence of strangers. On such occasions 
the installing officer should deliver an address, giving a 
history and explaining the principles of the institution. 

The officers of a new Chapter must be installed by the 
Grand Patron or an authorized Deputy. 

All things being ready, the ceremonies will be per- 
formed in the following order. The installing officer 
will say : 

W. P. Sister Marshal, you will now present the 
Worthy Matron elect for installation. 
She conducts her in front of the Patron, and says : 

Mar. Worthy Patron,* it is with great pleasure that 

I present Sister ,who has been elected Worthy 

Matron of this Chapter for the ensuing year. Our Sister 

* If it be the Grand or Associate Grand Patron, she will address 
him as Grand Patron. 




106 ORDER OP THE EASTERN STAR. 

is not unmindful of the important responsibility that 
rests upon her in the acceptance of this trust ; yet she is 
willing to assume it in the hope that, 
by the aid of her Sisters and Brethren 
and the favor of God, she will be 

^y^Vlj^v enabled to properly fulfill the duties 
of the office, and not prove unworthy 
of the high honor that has been con- 
ferred upon her. 

W. P. Sister , before proceeding with your in- 
vestiture, it is necessary that you should signify. your 
assent to those Regulations of the Order, upon the strict 
observance of which the stability and success of our 
organization mainly depends. 

You admit that the Chapter Order of the Eastern Star 
is the basis of the Adoptive Eite, and that the name, 
character, and mode of recognition of the Order are un- 
changeable. 

Ans. I do. 

You admit that a belief in the existence of a Supreme 
Being is absolutely necessary to membership in the 
Order. 

Ans. I do. 

You promise to protect and obey the laws and regula- 
tions of the Grand Chapter, and the edicts of the Grand 
Patron, and to permit no violation of them by the mem- 
bers of your Chapter. 

Ans. I do. 

You agree that the ceremonies of initiation can in no 
case be conferred, unless a Master Mason, in regular 
standing, presides. 

Ans. I do. 

You admit that no new Chapter shall be formed with- 



INSTALLATION. 107 

out permission of the Grand Chapter, or Grand Patron ; 
and that no countenance be given to any illegall y formed 
Chapter, its members, or persons initiated therein. 

Ans. I do. 

Tou agree that no visitor shall be received into your 
Chapter without due examination, nor when such visitor 
is likely to disturb the peace and harmony thereof. 

Ans. I do. 

You agree that no person can be regularly initiated in, 
or admitted a member of a Chapter, without previous 
notice, and proper investigation as to character. 

Ans. I do. 

You agree to promote the welfare of this Order, and 
will use your utmost endeavors to make yourself useful 
and your station honorable. 

Ans. I do. 

Do you promise to support and maintain these rules 
and regulations, and to enforce their observance by the 
members of your Chapter ? 

Ans. I do. 

W. P. Members of Chapter, No , you 

have heard your Sister- elect in the sacred pledges she 
has made. Do you still entertain the wish that she 
should preside over the Chapter the coming year. 
No one replying in the negative, he proceeds : 

The office of "Worthy Matron is one of much labor, 
care, and anxiety, and demands the utmost attention and 
forbearance on the part of that officer. 

The members will naturally look to you, not only for 
counsel in the many and varied matters that come before 
the Chapter, but for advice and sympathy in their 
troubles and sorrows. It should be your constant study, 
therefore, how best to cultivate all the social virtues. 



108 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

You should be cautious in your behavior and cour- 
teous to your members. You should be an example of 
good order and punctuality, for in that manner only can 
you expect obedience to them from others. Within the 
Chapter it will be your duty to see that its regular meet- 
ings are held ; that called meetings be had whenever 
the good of the Chapter demands it ; that each of your 
subordinates fills her station with honor and usefulness ; 
that the rules, by-laws, and regulations be implicitly ob- 
served ; that the funds, records, rituals, and parapher- 
nalia of the Chapter be properly preserved by the officers 
in whose charge they are ; that the cry of the widow 
and orphan shall never be heard in vain within the sphere 
of operations assumed by this Chapter, and that it fails in 
nothing for which it is established. 

The Matron of a Chapter ought to possess knowledge, 
to diversify her instructions ; judgment, to preserve the 
happy medium between rashness and timidity ; tulent, 
to address the members at length on every emergency ; 
tact, to conciliate disputes and reconcile contending par- 
ties ; and presence of mind, to decide correctly on any 
sudden indiscretion or irregularity which may occur 
among the members of the Chapter, that order and good 
feeling may be perfect and complete. The great secret 
of government is to understand correctly under what 
circumstances authority ought to be exercised, and when 
it should be profitably withheld. She must never exer- 
cise partiality, or be detected in the slightest bias in 
favor of individuals. The Sister who possesses aU these 
qualifications will rule and govern her Chapter with 
honor to herself and satisfaction to the members; it 
will represent a well-regulated and happy family, where 
harmony and loving kindness will prevail throughout the 
Chapter. 



INSTALLATION. 109 

All this lies in your power to do, by the zealous exer- 
cise of your prerogatives as Worthy Matron, to which 
office your associate members have been pleased to elect 
you. 

Sister Marshal, you will now invest our Sister with 
the proper badge of her office. 

When she has done so, the Patron continues : 

Tour badge, the Gavel within the Star, the highest 
emblem of authority, will admonish you, that upon your 
judgment and discretion rests the government of this 
Chapter, and, in a great measure, the prosperity of our 
beautiful Order in this place. 

Sister Marshal, you will now conduct our Sister to her 
proper station in the East. 

The Marshal conducts her to the East, at the right of the Install- 
ing officer, when the following, or some other ode, may he sung: 

Music— Zorah. 
Accept the trust we offer thee, 

Our Matron and our guide ; 
May justice, truth, and purpose high, 

In all thy power abide. 

Oh ! lead us by the light of truth, 

To walk in wisdom's way, 
Thro' all the trying paths of life, 

To realms of endless day. 

The Matron will be seated in the East until the other officers axe 
installed. The Installing officer proceeds : 

W. P. Sister Marshal, you will now present the Asso- 
ciate Matron elect for installation. 

She does so, and says : 

Mar. Worthy Patron, it affords me pleasure to present 

to you Sister , who has been elected Associate 

Matron of this Chapter for the ensuing year. 




HO ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

W. P. My Sister, the duties of your position are em- 
bodied in the name of your office. You are the Assistant 
to the Worthy Matron in all branches 
of her responsible charge, and in her 
absence will succeed to all her privi- 
leges and responsibilities. It is neces- 
sary, therefore, that you should make 
yourself familiar with the duties of that 
office, so that you may fill it with credit to yourself and 
honor to your Chapter. Will you sacredly promise to 
use your utmost endeavors to make yourself useful and 
your station honorable in the post of Associate Matron ? 

She replies in the affirmative. 

Sister Marshal, you will now invest our Sister with 
the proper badge of her office. 

She does so, and the Patron continues: 

Your badge, the Sun within the Star, an emblem of 
brightness, admonishes you to assist the Worthy Matron 
by your counsel, as the rising sun enlightens the day, 
being ever ready to assume her station when she should 
be absent. 

Sister Marshal, you will now conduct our Sister to her 
proper station in the West. 

She does so, and then resumes her station. 

W. P. Sister Marshal, you will now present the Treas- 
urer elect. 

She does so, and says: 

Mar. Worthy Patron, I take pleasure in presenting to 

you Sister , Treasurer elect of this Chapter for 

the ensuing year. 




INSTALLATION. Ill 

W. P. My Sister, the proper preservation of our funds 

demand the utmost honesty and care upon the part of 

the Treasurer. The money placed in 

your hands may be required for the 

relief of the widow and orphan whom 

God may, at the most unexpected 

moments, send us as objects of our 

bounty. Will you sacredly promise 

never to violate the holy obligations 

assumed by you as Treasurer of this Chapter ? 

She replies in the affirmative. 

Then, Sister Marshal, you will invest our Sister with 
the proper badge of her office. 

She does so, and the Patron continues : 

Your badge, the Cross-keys within the Star, an emblem 
of security, admonishes you to the strictest fidelity in 
the preservation and disbursement of the funds intrusted 
to your keeping. 

Sister Marshal, you will now conduct our Sister to her 
proper station in the North-east. 

She does so, and resumes her station. 

W. P. Sister Marshal, you will now present the Sec- 
retary elect. 
She does so, and says : 

Mar. Worthy Patron, I have the pleasure of present- 
ing to you Sister , who has been elected Secre- 
tary of this Chapter for the ensuing year. 

W. P. My Sister, yours is an onerous and most re- 
sponsible charge. But few are competent to perform it 
in the thorough manner it demands. Failure or neglect 
upon your part will complicate and embarrass all our pro- 




112 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

ceedings, and give us a disgraceful record on the books 
of the Grand Chapter. It is your duty to note down in 
proper order the business of our meet- 
ings ; to collect all moneys due the 
Chapter, and to make out and forward 
to the Grand Secretary the necessary 
returns as required by the Constitution. 
With this knowledge of the respon- 
sible labors which, as Secretary, will be expected of you, 
do you sacredly promise to perform them to the utmost 
of your ability ? 
She replies in the affirmative. 

Then, Sister Marshal, you will invest our Sister with 
the proper badge of her office. 
She does so, and the Patron continues: 

Your badge, the Cross-Pens within the Star, an em- 
blem of power and intelligence, admonishes you that, 
as an invisible pen records all our thoughts and actions, 
so should you record the good deeds of your companions, 
and keep the accounts between them and the Chapter 
without prejudice or partiality. 

Sister Marshal, you will now conduct our Sister to her 
station in the South-east. 

She does so, and resumes her station. 

W. P. Sister Marshal, you will now present the Con- 
ductress and Associate Conductress elect. 

She does so, and says: 

Mar. Worthy Patron, it is my pleasing duty to intro- 
duce Sister , elected to be Conductress, and 

Sister , elected to be Associate Conductress of 

this Chapter. 




INSTALLATION. 113 

W. P. My Sisters, upon you devolve the duty of 
preparing and conducting through the ceremonies those 
who seek the privileges of our Order ; 
it behooves, therefore, that you should 
be among our most enlightened offi- 
cers. The candidate enters our Chap- 
ter with a heart open to receive a fa- 
vorable impression of our mysteries 
and our 'aims. If you present these matters aright, 
throwing sisterly courtesy and dignity around your offi- 
cial proceedings, she will acquire a 
fond regard for a system that aims so 
high and promises so much. Remem- 
ber, therefore, that it depends greatly 
upon the manner in which you receive 
and conduct a candidate, to make 
those impressions lasting, and what we desire they 
should be. 

Such, my Sisters, are your duties as Conductress and 
Associate Conductress, and do you now pledge yourselves 
to use your best endeavors to perform them with credit 
to yourselves and honor to the Chapter ? 
They reply in the affirmative. 

Then, Sister Marshal, you will invest our Sisters with 
their respective badges of office. 

She does so, and the Patron continnes : 

Sister Conductress, your badge, the Scroll and Baton 
within the Star, an emblem of prepared plans and their 
fulfillment, admonishes you that the first impressions 
made upon a candidate are permanent, and should always 
be for good. 

Sister Associate Conductress, your badge, the Baton 




114 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

within the Star, an emblem of direction, admonishes 
you that good discipline is essential to the success of our 
society. 

Sister Marshal, you will now conduct our Sisters to 
their proper stations in the South and North. 
She does so, and resumes her station : 

W. P. Sister Marshal, you will now present the War- 
der and Sentinel of the Chapter. 
She does so, and says : 

Mar. Worthy Patron, I present to you for installa- 
tion Sister , appointed as Warder, and Brother* 

. . . ., appointed as Sentinel of this Chapter for the 
ensuing year. 

W. P. My Sister and Brother, you are respectively 
the Inner and Outer Guards of the Chapter. Upon you, 
therefore, we rely to preserve that 
secrecy which is essential to our pro- 
ceedings, and to see that the solemnity 
^of our ceremonies is not interrupted by 
untimely alarms. 
Will you solemnly promise to use your 
utmost endeavors to promote that state of harmony and 
serenity which becomes all our proceedings ? 
They answer in the affirmative. 
Then, Sister Marshal, you will invest 
our Sister and Brother with their re- 
spective badges of office. 
She does so, and the Patron continues : 
Sister Warder, your badge, the Dove 
within the Star, an emblem of peace, admonishes you 

* If both are Sisters, the language must be changed accordingly. 





INSTALLATION. 115 

that peace and harmony are essentially necessary to the 
success of our Order, and that it lies greatly in your 
power to promote them. 

Brother Sentinel, your "badge, the Cross- Swords within 
the Star, an emblem of protection, admonishes you that 
upon your watchful care depends our security against 
interruption. 

Sister Marshal, you will now conduct our Sister and 
Brother to their proper stations. 

She does so, and resumes her station. 

W. P. Sister Marshal, you will now present the Sis- 
ters appointed to represent the five rays of the Central 
Star of this Chapter. 

She conducts the five Sisters to the Patron, and says : 

Mar. Worthy Patron, it is my pleasing duty to pre- 
sent in one group the five rays of this Chapter of the 
Eastern Star. Sister has been appointed to repre- 
sent the blue ray of Adah ; Sister , the yellow ray 

of Ruth ; Sister , the white ray of Esther ; Sister 

, the green ray of Martha ; and Sister , the 

red ray of Electa. 

The Patron says : 

W. P. My Sisters, you are the floral center of this 
Chapter, and as the various flowers which your colors 
represent, illuminated by that great light, 
the Holy Scriptures, teach us the lessons 
of undying love, unending possession, 
heart purity, undeviating sincerity, and 
unfading beauty, so are represented in 
you the most charming, the most pathetic, and the most 
instructive lessons of the Old and New Testament. 




116 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. • 





To you is assigned the duty of instructing the candi- 
date in those sublime virtues, illustrated in the lives of 
the characters you represent. How im- 
portant then, that in your official duties 
you should labor to throw an air of beauty 
and solemnity around all that you have to 
k. say and do, so that from you, as the Cen- 
tral Star of our Chapter, may emanate a light that will 
give holy joy to every one who attends our meeting. 

Will you promise to use your utmost 
endeavors to fulfill these duties with dig- 
nity and earnestness? 

They answer in the affirmative. 

Sister Marshal, you will now invest our Sisters -with 
their respective badges of office, and conduct them to 
their proper stations. 

The Marshal invests them with their jewels, be- 
ginning with Adah, conducts them to their places, 
and returns to her station. The Patron continues: 

W. P. Sister Adah, your badge, the 
Sword and Vail, will remind you of the filial piety of the 
heroic daughter of Jephthah. 

Sister Ruth, your badge, the Sheaf, will 
remind you, that to please God is worthy 
of our greatest sacrifices. 

Sister Esther, your badge, the Crown 
i and Scepter, will remind you that true 
friendship refuses no pain or loss for the object of its af- 
fection. 

Sister Martha, your badge, the Broken Column, will 
remind you that times of the deepest sorrow and loneli- 
ness are often enlightened by the highest graces of God. 





INSTALLATION. 117 

Sister Electa, your badge, the Cup, will remind you 
that the cup which our Heavenly Father gives us to 
drink, though bitter and distasteful, will in the end 
prove to overflow with blessings, rich, abounding and 
eternal. Such, my Sisters, are the lessons inculcated by 
your several badges of office. 

The truly sublime virtues exemplified in the lives of 
those you represent are worthy of imitation, and I hope 
that as you teach these virtues in the Chapter, so will 
you practice them out of it. Thus will you not only 
honor the stations to which you have been appointed, 
but lay up for yourselves those Heavenly treasures that 
shall never fade, and will render you " Fairest among 
thousands altogether lovely." 
The Sisters will be seated. The Patron continues: 

W. P. Sister Marshal, you will now present the Wor- 
thy Patron elect. 

Mar. Worthy Patron, I have the honor to present for 

installation, Bro , elected Worthy Patron of this 

Chapter for the ensuing year. Our brother is fully 
aware of the great responsibilities he is assuming in the 
acceptance of this important position, yet he is willing 
to undertake the charge in the belief that, with the aid 
and forbearance of the members and brethren, he will 
not fail in the performance of his duty, and thus prove 
that the confidence reposed in him has not been mis- 
placed. 

W. P. Bro , you have been elected by the free 

choice of the members of this Chapter to occupy the most 
exalted position in their power to bestow upon a gentle- 
man, a just compliment to your zeal and worth, and for 
which I offer you my sincere congratulations. Tour 
long and intimate acquaintance with the rules and affairs 




118 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

of our Order justify me in saying that your fellow-mem- 
bers have exercised a sound discretion in this selection. 
You are elevated to a position from 
which the power and prerogative may 
depart with the expiration of your term 
of service, but the honor and dignity, 
^except by your own act, never. The high 
honors attached to the office of Worthy 
Patron are accompanied by weighty and 
delicate responsibilities. From the nature of this asso- 
ciation, you are not the chief officer, yet, in all things 
pertaining to your station, your advice and counsel will 
always be solicited, and your decisions cheerfully ap- 
proved. It is expected that you will not only have a 
watchful care over the interests of the Chapter, and see 
that the laws of the Order are promptly obeyed by the 
members, but that you will feel called upon to exempli- 
fy in your conduct through life the excellent tenets of 
our Order. Prove by your good example, that the mem- 
bers of the Chapter have found in you a brother in whom 
they can perfectly confide. Maintain with unswerving 
care the constitutions and regulations of the Order, and, 
in your respect for law and good government, cause all 
others to find the strongest incentive of obedience to all 
lawful commands. 

Your specific duties are to preside during the cere- 
monies of initiation ; at the election of officers, and at 
such other times as required by the Worthy Matron ; to 
see that the officers are thoroughly qualified to perform 
their duties in the ceremonies of initiation ; to have a 
general supervision over the affairs of the Chapter, and 
to act as the constitutional adviser of the Worthy 
Matron. Your well-known zeal in the cause of the 



INSTALLATION. 119 

Order impels me to believe that you will discharge these 
important duties with lasting benefit to the Chapter and 
honor to yourself. 

You will now be invested with the proper badge of 
office, and conducted to your station in the East, at the 
left of the Worthy Matron. 

The Marshal invests the Patron with the jewel, conducts him to 
his station in the East. 

The officers having been installed, the Installing officer resumes 
the ceremony of completing the installation of the Matron. 

W. P. Worthy Matron, the officers of your Chapter 
have been installed into their respective stations for the 
ensuing year. You will now receive in charge the Char- 
ter, by the authority of which this Chapter is held. You 
will carefully preserve it, and in no case should it ever 
be out of your immediate control, and when your term 
of office expires, you will duly transmit it to your succes- 
sor in office. 

You will receive the Constitution of the Grand Chap- 
ter of the State, and the By-Laws of this Chapter, which 
you are to see carefully and promptly obeyed. 

The Bible, that book which reveals the duties which 
the Great Master of all exacts from us, has God for 
its author, truth for its substance, and the salvation of 
mankind for its end, open upon the altar, is confided to 
your care. 

And now I present you with this Gavel, emblem of 
your authority ; and as none can disobey it, I confidently 
hope that you will never use it in an arbitrary or dicta- 
torial manner, remembering that we should charitably 
temper justice with equity. 

The Chapter is now called up, and Patron continues : 
Worthy Matron, behold your Sisters. 



120 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

Sisters, behold your Worthy Matron, and as such you 
will salute her with the honors. 
The honors are given. 
You will now assume your station as Worthy Matron. 

The Chapter is called down by the Matron.— (Music.) When the 
muf iC ceases the Patron continues : 

W. P. Sisters and Brothers of Chapter, Xo. 

, such is the nature of all associations, that, as some 

must rule and govern, so others must submit and obey. 

The oliicers whom you have selected to preside over 
your deliberations during the ensuing year, are, 1 believe, 
sufficiently conversant with the rules of propriety to 
avoid exceeding the powers with which you have en- 
trusted them. 

A leading object of our institution is to inculcate 
sound morality, as founded upon the great moral princi- 
ple set forth in the sacred volume, ever found on our 
altar, which we receive as the rule and guide of our 
faith and practice. Special care should be used in the 
admission of members, lest, by the introduction of im- 
proper materials, the institution would be injured. It 
should be constantly borne in mind that the respecta- 
bility and usefulness of a Chapter does not consist in the 
number, but in the character of its members. It is bet- 
ter that no additions be made to the roll of membership 
for years, than even one unworthy foot should be allowed 
to cross the threshold of the Chapter. The uninitiated 
judge of our institution by the conduct of its individual 
members. You should be as careful of the reputation 
of your Chapter as that of your family ; and as you 
would admit none to the society of the latter whose 
character is bad, so should you carefully exclude such 
from the former. 



INSTALLATION. 121 

As the purposes for which we are associated together 
are to protect the widow and orphan, comfort the 
afflicted, sympathize with the sorrowing, and relieve 
the destitute and distressed ; and, as it is only by united 
action that we can hope to accomplish these objects, I 
trust no discord will ever arise among us, but that we 
may be ever united in the pleasing work of increasing 
our own happiness and promoting that of others. 

All things are now ready for you to enter upon the 
proceedings of a new year. But we know not what is 
before us. No one can affirm that another year, or even 
a single day, will be committed to our trust. Therefore, 
if we have been faithful heretofore, let us redouble our 
exertions for the future. 

Let us be kind, forbearing and forgiving one toward 
another. Let us return kindness for hostility. Let ug 
sacredly preserve our lips from slander and evil speak, 
ing. And, finally, let us ever be governed, in words and 
deeds, by that golden rule, " That whatsoever ye would 
that others should do unto you, do ye even so unto 
them." Thus may we confidently hope that in the good 
providence of God, each of us will be brought, through a 
useful and happy life, to a blissful close, and a trium- 
phant entrance into the city oi the living God. 

Sister Marshal, you will now proclaim the officers of 
Chapter, No. . . regularly elected and installed. 

Mar. By direction of the Worthy Patron, I proclaim 

the officers of Chapter, No , Order of the 

Eastern Star, regularly elected and installed for the en- 
suing year. 



INSTALLATION OF THE OFFICERS OF 
A GRAND CHAPTER. 



The chair being occupied by the Grand Patron of the 
preceding year, or by a Past Grand, Patron, will proceed 
to the duty of installing the officers elect into their re- 
spective stations. 

(An officer of a Masonic Grand Lodge, or the Master 
of a Lodge, may perform this service, assisted by a Grand 
Marshal. ) 

The chairs remain occupied by the officers, who, hav- 
ing served their time, are about to retire from office. 
The ceremony will be conducted in the following order : 

Inst. Officer. Sisters and Brethren, I am now prepared 
to install into their respective stations the officers of this 
Grand Chapter. Brother Grand Marshal, you will pre- 
sent the officers elect at the altar for installation. 

The officers are arrauged by the Grand Marshal in a semi-circle 
around the altar, facing the East, the Grand Patron on the right, the 
Grand Matron next, and so on according to rank. 

Gr. Mar. Grand Patron, the Grand Officers elect are 
in order before you, and await your pleasure. 

Inst. Off. Sisters and Brethren, you here behold those 
whom you have elected officers to serve you for the en- 
suing year. If any member of this Grand Chapter is 
apprised of any just or sufficient reason why either of 
these officers should not be installed, let the objection 
be now made known. 

No objection being made, he proceeds : 



INSTALLATION OF GBAND OFFICERS. 123 

I will now administer the obligation of office, which 
you will each repeat. 

The Grand Chapter is called up by two raps of the gavel. 
I {each giving full name), do solemnly pledge my honor, 
in the presence of Almighty God and of this Grand 
Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, that I will, to 
the best of my ability, faithfully and impartially perform 
all the duties incumbent on the office to which I have 
been selected ; that I will conform to the constitution, 
laws, rules and regulations of this Grand Chapter, and 
in every way within my power assist in extending the 
usefulness of the institution. 

The officers may be seated on one side the room convenient 
to be presented in succession. The Grand Chapter is called to order. 

Brother Grand Marshal, you will present the Grand 
Patron. 

Gr. Mar. Worthy Sir, I have the honor to present 

Brother , who has been elected Grand Patron of 

the Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, of the 
State of , for the ensuing year, for installation. 

GRAND PATRON. 
Inst. Off. My Brother, we most cordially congratulate 
you upon your election to this, the most distinguished 
and important office within the gift of 
your associates. The confidence dis- 
played by this Grand Chapter in ele- 
vating you to supreme command, is an 
ample guarantee to the Order through- 
out this jurisdiction, of your wisdom 
and of your worth. You cannot, Sir, 
be otherwise than aware of the deep and solemn conse- 
quence of the duties you are now about to assume, or of 




124 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

the many cares and perplexities which surround its 
exalted honors. These difficulties will, I am confident, 
be alleviated by the affectionate sympathy and active 
assistance of your associates. You may occasionally 
encounter stern opposition from without, from those Avho 
do not, or will not understand our purposes ; but as the 
most dangerous and insidious enemy to the perpetuity 
and harmony of our beloved institution will pale before 
you in the uprightness of your administration of its 
affairs, we can have no fears of the results. 

We now, Sir, have the honor to invest you with the 
jewel of your office (the Marshal invests him with the 
jewel), and with the emblem of your control (hands the 
gavel), which in your hands should never be sounded in 
vain, and welcome you to the East of the Grand Chap- 
ter, Order of the Eastern Star, of the State of , 

and render you this, the first act of homage due to you 
as Grand Patron. 

Bows low, with hands crossed on the breast. The Grand Chapter 
is called up. 

I now salute and proclaim you Grand Patron of the 

Order of the Eastern Star, of the State of 

Sisters and Brethren, behold your Grand Patron. Grand 
Patron, behold your Sisters and Brothers. 

The assembly will, under the direction of the Installing Officer, 
salute the Grand Patron with the grand honors. The Graud Chap- 
ter is called to order. 

Grand Marshal, you will present the Grand Matron 
elect. 

Gr. Mar. I have the honor ' to present you Sister 

, who has been elected Grand Matron of this 

Grand Chapter, for the ensuing year, for installation. 




INSTALLATION OF GRAND OFFICERS. 125 

GRAND MATRON. 

Inst. Off. Sister , , the office to winch you have 

been elected, is one of high dignity, and may become one 
y&y of great importance, for in the absence 

of the Grand Patron from the meet- 
ings of the Grand Chapter, or from the 
limits of its jurisdiction, you are, by 
i the Constitution, invested with his 
powers and to exercise his high prerog- 
atives. In view of such emergencies, 
allow us to remind you of the duty devolving on you, to 
be thoroughly prepared to fill his distinguished position 
with honor to yourself and advantage to the Order. 

With pleasure we invest you with the jewel of office, 
and proclaim you Grand Matron of the Order of the 

Eastern Star of the State of ... : You will be 

seated in your place, at the right of the Grand Patron. 

Before she is seated, the Installing Officer calls up the Grand 
Chapter, and the Grand Matron is saluted in the same manner as the 
Grand Patron. The Gr. Marshal will present the Associate Grand 
Patron in nearly the same words as the previous officers. 

ASSOCIATE GRAND PATRON. 

Inst. Off. Bro , by the suffrages of the mem- 
bers of this Grand Chapter, you have been elected to the 
/^K position of Associate Grand Patron. 

$$SBS^W$K "^ e assic1jJ0US m tne performance of 
/M/W^^^/^i your duties, so that you will truly be 
P^^^^^^^^i a strength &n ^ support to the Grand 
^^^T^^^^^^ Patron. In the absence of your su- 
^^§||§§§|P^ perior officers, you will assume su- 
>p^ preme command. Tour fitness for the 

discharge of such a trust undoubtedly led to your selec- 
tion for the office by your companions, and it will be 



126 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

your duty and, no doubt, a pleasure so to act as to justify 
their confidence. 

You will now be invested with the jewel of your office 
and conducted to your station in the West. 

The Grand Marshal presents the other officers in the following 
order, and with appropriate words : 

ASSOCIATE GRAND MATRON. 

Inst. Off. Sister ....,., your associates have shown 
their confidence in your fidelity by electing you to 
the responsible position of Associate 
Grand Matron. Your previous de- 
votion to the duties of the Order of 
the Eastern Star is a sufficient guar- 
i antee that you will be a vigilant officer 
in whatever station you may be placed. 
It affords us much pleasure to have 
you invested with the jewel of your office. 

You will be conducted to your station, in the West, 
at the right of the Associate Grand Patron. 

GRAND TREASURER. 

Inst. Off. Sister , your associates have been 

pleased to elect you to the responsible office of Treas- 
urer of this Grand Chapter. Your 
integrity and truthfulness satisfy us 
that the trust is wisely reposed. It is 
your duty to receive all moneys from 
the Grand Secretary ; make due entry 
of the same, and pay them out on the 
order of the Grand Chapter, or Grand 
Patron, rendering accounts thereof. We are happy to 
have the privilege of investing you with the jewel of 
your office. The faithful performance of your duties 





INSTALLATION OF GRAND OFFICERS. 127 

will entitle you to the good opinion and thanks of your 
companions. You will be conducted to your station. 
GRAND SECRETARY. 

Inst. Off. Brother* , it is with extreme pleas- 
ure that we invest you with the jewel of your office. 
/g% The duties of Grand Secretary are 

A^^^^W^ m ° re Yaried > difficult, and I may add, 

Ml^^^SlWi. P leasant > tnan tnat of any other officer 
^M^^^^^^l m tne Grand Chapter. Brought by 
^^^^^M'^ ^^r 7 our official position more immediately 
>j||||||||p^ into communication with the whole 
^yjr body of the Order, it is requisite that 

you should possess ability, skill and industry, to meet the 
various demands upon you. It is your duty to record 
all the proceedings of the Grand Chapter ; to receive all 
moneys due the Grand Chapter, and pay them over to 
the Grand Treasurer, and keep a just and true account 
of the same ; to keep and affix the seal of the Grand 
Chapter to all proper documents, and carefully to pre- 
serve its archives. These are very important duties, on 
which, in a great measure, the usefulness of the Grand 
Chapter depends. Accuracy and punctuality are quali- 
ties which your office particularly requires; and as there 
is no place in the Grand Chapter in which a member can 
render more substantial service to the Order, I am confi- 
dent that you will so perform its duties as to merit their 
esteem and receive their hearty approbation. Tou will 
be conducted to your station. 

GRAND CHAPLAIN. 

Inst. Off. Reverend and Worthy Brother, the sacred 
position of Grand Chaplain has been entrusted to your 
care. In the discharge of your duties you will be required 

*When this office is held by a lady the language must be changed. 



128 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 




to lead the devotional exercises of the sessions of the 
Grand Chapter, and to perform the sacred functions of 
yo^ your holy calling at all our public 

ceremonies. The principles and pre- 
cepts of our association are in strict 
accordance with the best teachings and 
maxims found in the inspired volume, 
which is the chart and text-book of 
your sacred mission. Teach us from 
its life-giving precepts ; intercede for us with that Divine 
Majesty which it so fully reveals and unfolds to us ; and 
inspire us by its lessons of infinite wisdom and truth. 
The profession which you have chosen for your lot in 
life is the best guarantee that you will discharge the 
duties of your present appointment with steadfastness 
and perseverance in well-doing. It is eminently appro- 
priate that an emblem of the sacred volume, which sheda 
its benignant rays upon the altar of every lawful assem- 
blage of our Order, should be the jewel of your office, 
with which you will now be invested and conducted to 
your proper station, at the left, in front of the Grand 
Patron. 

GRAND CONDUCTRESS." 

Inst. Off. Sister , you have been elected to the 

honorable post of Grand Conductress of this Grand 
Chapter, and will now be invested 
with the jewel of office. Upon you 
will devolve the duties of receiving 
and introducing visitors ; acting as the 
^ messenger of the Grand Officers, and 
as a useful assistant to the Grand 
Marshal in the ceremonies of the 
Order. Thus your official position becomes one of great 





INSTALLATION OF GBAND OFFICERS. 129 

value and importance to the comfort and good order 
of the Grand Chapter. Vigilance and zeal are neces- 
sary requisites of your office, and we are confident that 
you possess these qualifications. You will be conducted 
to your station, in the South. 

ASSOCIATE GRAND CONDUCTRESS. 

Inst Off. Sister , you have been elected Associ- 
ate Grand Conductress, and will now be invested with the 
/^K - ^ jewel of office. Your duties will re- 
quire you to devote your attention to 
the condition of the Grand Chapter ; 
to see that everything is in readiness 
for the meetings of the body ; to act 
as special messenger of the Grand Pa- 
tron and Grand Matron, and to assist 
the Grand Marshal and Grand Conductress in the per- 
formance of their duties. You will now be conducted 
to your station, in the Xorth ; and remember that the 
post of honor is the post of duty. 

GRAND MARSHAL. 

Inst. Off. Brother , you have been appointed 

Grand Marshal of this Grand Chapter. The duties of 

#your office require care, promptness 
and activity. You are to arrange all 
processions of the Grand Chapter ; 
to make the proclamations of the 
installations of the Grand Officers, 
and at the institution of new Chap- 
ters, under direction of the Grand Pa- 
tron. Skill and precision are essentially necessary to 
the faithful discharge of these duties. You will now 
be invested with the jewel of your office, and be con- 




130 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

ducted to your station, at the right, in front of the 
Grand Patron. 

GRAND LECTURER. 

Inst. Off. Brother , you have been appointed 

the Grand Lecturer and the Custodian of the Ritual of 
/^K the Order in this jurisdiction, and we 

now invest you with the jewel of your 
office. It is your duty to instruct the 
members of the Order in the proper 
i performance of their duties ; to com- 
municate light and information to the 
uninformed ; to preserve our Ritual 
from change and innovation ; and, by your instructions 
to the members, to illustrate the genius and vindicate 
the principles of our institution. Let it be your object, 
while inculcating upon the members of this Order a 
faithful regard for its obligations, to impress them with 
a favorable opinion of its moral design and intellectual 
tendency. You will be conducted to your station at the 
left, in front of the Grand Patron. 

GRAND WARDER. 

Inst. Off. Sister , you have been elected Grand 

Warder of this Grand Chapter, and we now invest you 

#with the jewel of your office. Your 
position is one of trust and responsi- 
bility. It is your duty to announce 
the approach of visitors and strangers. 
In so doing, possess yourself of the 
necessary information to announce 
their rank and position properly. Be 
cautious and vigilant, that no improper person may gain 
admittance. Your station is inside, at the door of en- 
trance, on the right of the Associate Grand Patron. 



INSTALLATION OF GRANT) OFFICERS. 



131 



GRAND ADAH, GRAND RUTH, GRAND ESTHER, GRAND 
MARTHA, AND GRAND ELECTA. 




Inst. Off. Sisters, you have been ap- 
pointed severally to the offices of 
Grand Adah, Grand Euth, Grand Es- 
ther, Grand Martha, arid Grand Electa. 
You are required to assist the Grand 
Officers generally in the discharge of 
their duties, and in every way in your 
power aid in the promotion of the 
interests of the Grand Chapter and the 
success of the Order. During the 
opening ceremonies of the Grand Chap- 
ter you will proclaim those sublime 
lessons of purity and faithfulness as 
exemplified by the same characters in 
the subordinate Chapter. You will be invested with the 
jewels of your several offices, and conducted to your 
stations. 

GRAND SENTINEL. 

Inst. Off. Brother , you have been appointed 

Grand Sentinel of the Grand Chapter. Our institution 
is of a sacred character, and an irreparable injury might 
result from a negligent or careless discharge of your 
duty. Your office is one of great importance, and re- 
quires unremitting care and watchfulness. Your station 





132 ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 

is outside the door. We now invest you with the jewel 
of your office, and you will repair to 
your place, and there be in active dis- 
charge of your duties. 
All the officers are called up. 

Inst. Off. It has fallen to your lot 
to be elevated to the highest places in 
the gift of this Grand Chapter. On 
entering upon the responsible duties of your several 
offices the members of this Grand Body expect you to 
devote yourselves with energy and zeal to the work 
allotted you to do. I need not remind you of the solemn 
obligations you have entered into with us, and that on 
you will depend much of our prosperity, harmony and 
success. May you be guided in the discharge of your 
duties by the spirit of the principles set forth in the 
sublime teachings of our Order. May the self-sacrificing 
spirit of Adah, the meekness of Ruth, the devotion of 
Esther, the faith of Martha, and the love of Electa, be 
examples for your imitation, "being assured that the more 
devoted you are to our principles, the greater will be the 
respect entertained for you by the members of the Order, 
and the greater will be your enjoyment while you remain 
with us. In the organization of our Society, it is neces- 
sary that some should rule and others serve. A wise 
ruler seeks to elevate those to whom he is indebted for 
the position he occupies, and as a stream cannot rise 
higher than its source, so a ruler cannot gain prominence 
and glory greater than that enjoyed by his subjects. 
Let it be your aim to rise in office, for in so doing you 
elevate the whole body, and bring glory and honor to 
our beloved Order. 



INSTALLATION OF GRAND OFFICEES. 133 

The Grand Chapter is called up. 

Sisters and Brothers, let us all remember that we have 
a personal interest as well as a personal duty in the wel- 
fare of our Order, and that in proportion to our energy 
and zeal will be our success and prosperity. Let us feel 
assured that in all branches of our Order the prog- 
ress, zeal and good conduct of the members are modeled 
upon the fidelity of the officers, and so be animated by 
the highest sense of duty. Let me exhort you in the 
words of the great Apostle : Do all things without niur- 
murings and without disputings : that you may be 
without blame, without spot, the children of God, irre- 
proachable, in the midst of a people depraved and per- 
verse, amongst whom you shine as lights in the world, 
bearing to them the word of life ; so that in the day of 
judgment we may all feel that we have not traveled in 
vain or vainly labored in the work of the Order of the 
Eastern Star ! 

Bro. Grand Marshal, you will proclaim the officers of 
the Grand Chapter elected and installed. 

The Grand Marshal will then make proclamation : 
By order of the Grand Patron and by authority of the 
Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, of the State 

of ,1 proclaim its Grand Officers elected and 

duly installed, in ample form. 



BURIAL SERVICE 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 



INTRODUCTION. 



" When our souls shall leave this dwelling, 
The glory of one fair and virtuous action 
Is above all the 'scutcheons on our tomb, 
Or silken banner over us." 




HE heritage of humanity is the grave. There is 
nothing so momentous as Death, as there is 
nothing so imminent, nothing so certain, noth- 
ing so universal. It is a mighty mediator. By 
it all the flames of rage are extinguished and 
hatred is appeased. From it there is neither exemption 
nor reprieve, for it happeneth unto all. It is not over- 
come by pride, soothed by flattery, moved by entreaties, 
bribed by benefits, softened by lamentations nor diverted 
by time. It is, therefore, absurd to fear that which we 
cannot prevent, as all that nature has prescribed must be 
good. One may live as a conqueror, a king, or a magis- 
trate ; but he must die as a man. The bed of death brings 
every human being to his pure individuality; to the 
intense contemplation of that deepest and most solemn of 
all relations, the relation between the creature and his 
Creator. Here it is that fame and renown cannot assist 



2 BURIAL SERVICE OP THE 

us ; that all external things must fail to aid us ; that even 
friends, affection, and human love and devotedness, can- 
not succor us. 

" Death levels all things in his march, 

Nought can resist his mighty strength ; 
The palace proud, — triumphal arch, 
Shall mete their shadow's length : 
The rich, the poor, one common bed 
Shall find in the unhonor'd grave, 
Where weeds shall crown alike the head 
Of tyrant and of slave." 

INTERMENT OP THE DEAD. 

The services for the interment of the dead of our Order 
are in their nature deeply impressive. This fact arises 
not from any boastful display, either in the ritual or the 
necessary surroundings, but from the very simplicity of 
both. No showy regalia are worn, and no adornment, save 
that of a simple badge of recognition, an emblem of a 
meek, sad, and loving spirit. No grandiloquent language 
is used, but only those few yet thrilling words which we 
hear uttered each time with feelings afresh of mingled 
sadness and admiration. The language is that of acqui- 
escence in the will of the Supreme Grand Patron of the 
universe, of hope in the immortality of the soul, and the 
pure affection for a much- loved sister and friend, from 
whom we are severed only for a time. 

" Soon may this fluttering spark of vital flame 
Forsake its languid, melancholy frame ! 
Soon may these eyes their trembling lustre close, 
Welcome the dreamless night of long repose ! 
Soon may this wo-worn spirit seek the bourn 
Where, lull'd to slumber, grief forgets to mourn." 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 3 

PERFORMANCE OF THE BURIAL SERVICE. 

The manner of the performance of the Burial Service is 
of the highest importance. The Patron and other officers 
of a Chapter, who officiate on so public and influential oc- 
casions, should see to it that everything is arranged in a 
becoming manner, particularly in reference to dress and 
the necessary floral emblems ; and that every word uttered 
carries with it emphasis and weight which the solemn 
Funeral Rite demands. The officers must recollect that 
they are engaged in the most sacred ceremony of the 
Order in the face of the world, and that it should be done 
worthily. If an officer of the Chapter is not competent 
to perform her part properly, another ought to be selected 
to take her place. No feelings of delicacy should inter- 
fere in the discharge of this important duty, for in no case 
should incompetency be allowed to bring the Order into 
disrepute by an unbecoming performance of a solemn 
public ceremony. This fact is substantiated in the expe- 
rience of every reflecting mind. If this important work 
is performed in a careless or indifferent manner, the grand 
effect is irretrievably lost, the elegant purposes of the 
ceremonial is more than wasted, and the impression left 
on the public mind thoroughly bad. 

" Death is the crown of life : 
Were death denied, poor man would live in vain ; 
Were death denied, to live would not be life ; 
Were death denied, e'en fools would wish to die ; 
Death wounds to cure, we fall, we rise, we reign 1 
Spring from our fetters, fasten in the skies, 
Where blooming Eden withers in our sight : 
Death gives more than was in Eden lost ; 
This King of Terrors is the Prince of Peace." 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. 



1. No Sister can be buried with the formalities 
of the Order, unless it be at her own request, or 
that of some of her family, communicated to the 
Patron or Matron of the Chapter of which she 
died a member. 

2. The Patron of the Chapter, having received 
notice of the death of a Sister, and of her request, 
or that of the proper member of the family, to be 
buried with the ceremonies of the Order, issues an 
order to the Secretary to notify the Chapter, and 
may, so far as convenient, invite other members of 
the Order. 

3. If the deceased was a Grand or Past Grand 
officer, it would be proper to invite the officers of 
the Grand Chapter ; when the Patron may, in his 
discretion, invite the highest male Grand officer 
present to conduct the Burial Service. 

4. The proper clothing to be worn at a funeral is 
black or dark clothes. A round rosette should be 
worn on the left breast — for an elderly person, to 
be of black crape; for a young person, to be of 
white and black ribbon. The official jewels should 
be draped with crape. 



GENERAL DIRECTIONS. 

5. Immediate attention should be given to the 
preparation of a Floral Star, about fifteen inches 
from point to point, to be used in the service, the 
points to be of appropriately colored flowers ; the 
crown of the star of immortelles, with a tuberose 
in the centre, and so constructed that the several 
points may be separated or drawn from the body 
of the star. 

6. This Service may be performed in a church, or 
at the house of the deceased, with proper change of 
language, etc. 

7. The members will assemble at the Chapter- 
room and walk or ride to the house, or meet at the 
house of the deceased, as may be most convenient. 

8. Should the weather prove stormy, or other 
circumstances require the service to be shortened, 
the Patron must exercise discretion in the omission 
of such parts as will leave the service effective and 
perfect as possible. 

9. The members of the Chapter will form a 
square round the grave; the Patron at the head of 
the grave, with the Matron, Treasurer, Associate 
Conductress, and members on the right ; the Asso- 
ciate Matron, Conductress, Secretary, and members 
on the left; Adah, Esther, and Electa on the right ; 
Ruth, Martha, and Warder on the left of the grave ; 
the mourners at the foot of the grave, inside of the 
square, as shown in the following diagram: 



general directions. 
Citizens. 



A. Con 


Treas. 


Mat. A. 


M. Cond. Sec. 


* 


* 


* * 


* * 
* 


* 






* 


• 




Patron. 


* 


* 
* 






* 
w * 


w 

^ * 
•3 




* 






* 


1 

g 

s 

H 
3 


w * 





-X- 

Martda. 
Members. 


* 

* 
* 


8 * 

1-3 




« * 

Q 

* § 




* 






* 


* 

* 


» * 


* -55- * 


* 

* * * 


* 




Mourners 


* 


* 






* 


* * 


* * 


Members. 


* * * * 





Citizens. 



SERVICE AT THE GRAYE. 



The foregoing arrangements being completed, the Patron 
will commence the services by saying : 

Pateo^t. Friends, we are now assembled around 
the final resting-place of these mortal remains, and 
are about closing the solemn duties of respect we 
owe to our departed sister. A few reflections, 
therefore, applicable to the solemnities of this oc- 
casion, instructive and impressive as they should 
be to the living, may, with propriety, be offered on 
this sacred spot — a spot hallowed with the memo- 
ries of deserted friendships, which linger round 
the heart, awakening a thousand melancholy yet 
pleasing reflections. 

How wisely and appropriately it has been said 
that it is better to go to the house of mourning 
than to go to the house Qf feasting. 

We are often told that in the world of matter all 
bodies are subject to the laws of mutual attraction 
and repulsion. The stars that fill the vault of 
heaven, the drops that make the ocean, the atoms 
that form the universe, are all controlled by a sim- 
ple but mysterious power that renders the perfect 
isolation of even a grain of sand impossible. Nc 
human being can pass away into death without 
the knowledge or sympathy of some one. We can 



8 BURIAL SERVICE OF THE 

not, if we would, live or die wholly unto ourselves. 
An individual may fall unseen, unwept, unlionored, 
and unsung, but when he drops like a pebble into 
the ocean of eternity, a ripple is created which 
must forever widen towards the limitless shore. 

Our Heavenly Father hath again reminded us of 
the brevity and uncertainty of human life, and 
hath warned us also to be ready for that day which 
comes at last unto all, when the body returns to 
dust, and the spirit unto Him who gave it. Again 
our heads are bowed down and our hearts are 
heavy. The lesson of the present is full of deep 
and significant meaning. Our beloved sister has 
fallen in life's battle, acknowledged, the supremacy 
of death, yielded to a victor whom none can re- 
sist, and entered upon the sleep that knows no 
waking. Her star is set on this world, and she has 
passed into the light that is beyond the valley of 
the shadow of death. With her we have traveled 
the pilgrimage of life; with her we have sympa- 
thized in its vicissitudes and trials. She is now 
removed beyond the reach of human praise or cen- 
sure. That we loved her, our presence here evinces. 
As she in her life exemplified the virtues of those 
chosen servants of God — the lovely heroines of 
the Order — so surely shall be her reward. The 
memory of her virtues lingers in our remembrance, 
and reflects its shining lustre beyond the portals of 
the tomb, which is the gateway to immortality. 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 9 

Sisters, brothers, and friends, let us improve the 
remaining brief period of life, and be prepared to 
obey our heavenly Grand Patron's call from our 
labors on earth to everlasting happiness in the 
world to come. 

Let us pray. 

The Associate Matron, or a person appointed for the pur- 
pose, will read the following, or give, extemporane- 
ously, some appropriate 

PBAYER. 

merciful and loving Father, who hast made 
our present life but temporary, and thus decreed 
that- the sorrows we endure shall not be perpetual, 
we thank Thee for the consciousness which Thou 
hast implanted in us that Thou dost exist, and 
that the grave is not the end of life. Pity and 
forgive the errors of the living, so that the evil 
consequences of sin may not follow them into the 
other world. May we endure the trials of life 
patiently, as resting in hope of a blissful reward. 
And may we so labor upon the instructive designs 
of our Order that Charity, Friendship, Good Coun- 
sel, and Morality may animate all our doings, pu- 
rify our thoughts, and render us pleasing and 
acceptable in Thy sight. Amen. 

After the Prayer, the members of the Order will join in 
singing the following, or some other appropriate 



10 



BURIAL SERVICE OP THE 

HYMN. 




Who, who would live alway, away from his God; 
Away from yon heaven, that blissful abode, 
Where the rivers of pleasure flow o'er the bright plains, 
And the noontide of glory eternally reigns. 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 11 

Where the saints of all ages in harmony meet 
Their Savior and brethren transported to greet; 
While the anthems of rapture unceasingly roll, 
And the smile of the Lord is the feast of the soul. 

The Patron takes a Floral Star from the coffin, which 
shall be prepared for the occasion, made five-pointed 
and of the appropriate colors, viz. : blug, yellow, white 
green, and red ; the centre of the star of immortelles, 
in the centre of which is a single Tuberose. The coffin 
is lowered into the grave, the Patron then proceeds : 

Pateok. This floral emblem of the Eastern Star, 
wrought in Nature's own hues and from her own 
sweetest material, instructs us with an eloquence 
more powerful than words. They are sensibly an 
antidote to the gloomy surroundings of death, and 
lend to the departed one the appearance of being 
asleep only ; on the grave they are sweetly consol- 
ing; they tell that the buried one is not neglected; 
that her memory has not departed from the hearts 
of the sorrowing ones. They are the constant 
and living witnesses that there is a hope and a 
future life. They, like ourselves, fade, wither and 
decay, yet in the spring-tide of the resurrection 
return to life, and in the celestial garden, where are 
collected God's choicest creation, when those who 
die in the Lord shall blossom and flourish with the 
fragrance of supernal grace; therefore, let them 
always adorn the coffin and bloom on the grave, 
for they are of heavenly appearance, and they tell 
of heavenly things. 



12 BURIAL SERVICE OP THE 

In the ceremonies of our Order, flowers bear an 
important part. They are the beautiful silent 
hymns in which we read of the Creator's love to 
us, and suggest, through their colors and fra- 
grance and matchless forms, the brave lessons and 
womanly graces of the five heroines of the Eastern 
Star. It is proper, therefore, that in this, our most 
solemn ceremonial, we should introduce our tra- 
ditional flowers, with their appropriate lessons; 
and I now call upon the immediate representatives 
of those heroines to remind us of the lessons they 
contain. 

Sister Adah, draw from these mute monitors of 
truth that portion of the Floral Star which sug- 
gests your particular duty, and impart to us its 
signification. (Handing her the Star.) 

Adah. My duty is to point hopefully to the blue 
expanse, beyond which lie the happy homes of our 
departed. (Draws the Blue flower from the Floral 
Star, and holding it up, returns the star to the 
Patron, saying:) This Blue flower, symbolizing 
Friendship, teaches the lesson of Undying Love. 
There are many who believe that the souls of our 
departed friends return, at times, when yearning 
love is strong within them, and bring us consola- 
tion from heavenly sources; others, that our Di- 
vine Father makes his messengers of such, to save 
from despair in those moments when our hearts 
sink within us. In the belief that true love is un- 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 13 

dying, I deposit this memento of our love in the 
grave with the remains of our departed sister. 
{Drops the flower into the grave.) 

Pateok. Sister Kuth, select that portion of the 
Floral Star which suggests your particular duty, 
and impart to us its signification. {Handing her 
the Star.) 

Ruth. My duty is to point to the golden tints 
of sunset, emblematical of the peaceful death-bed 
of those who sweetly sleep in the Lord. {Draius 
the Yelloio floioer from the Floral Star, and, holding 
it up, returns the Star to the Patron, saying:) 
This Yellow flower, symbolizing disinterested Kind- 
ness, teaches the lesson of Unending Possession. 
We believe, upon highest authority, that it is only 
what we have given in the true spirit of Charity 
that abides with us when earthly treasures pass 
away. Believing this we lay our beloved ones in 
the grave, trusting them to the hands of Him who 
can never forfeit the guardianship of our jewels. 
In,the belief that true love is unending, I deposit 
this memento of our remembrance in the grave of 
our departed sister. {Drops the floioer into the 
grave.) 

Patrol. Sister Esther, select that portion of 
the Floral Star which suggests your particular 
duty, and impart to us its signification. {Hand- 
ing her the Star.) 



14 BURIAL SERVICE OF THE 

Esthek. My duty is to point to the pure robes 
of the saints, as indicative of the spotless inherit- 
ance reserved for those who live in the faith of the 
one ever-living God. {Draws the White flower 
from the Floral Star, and, holding it up, returns 
the Star to the Patron, saying:) This White 
flower, symbolizing Truth and Innocence, teaches 
the lesson of Heart Purity. A promise of ineffa- 
ble consolation was once made, amidst the lilies 
on the mountain-side, "Blessed are the pure in 
heart, for tney shall see God ! " Believing this, 
the humble may look up — the lowly may hope, for 
the Unerring Eye will detect them amidst the 
flowers of His field, and they shall not fail to 
realize His promise : " Come, ye blessed of my 
Father, inherit the kingdom ! " In the belief that 
no word of God can be lost, I deposit this emblem 
of our reverence for the will of God in the grave. 
(Drops t-he flower into the grave.) 

Patron. Sister Martha, select that portion of 
the Moral Star which suggests your duty, and im- 
part to us its signification. (Handing Iter the 
Star.) 

Martha. My duty is to point to the verdure of 
God's evergreen trees as a symbol of the unfading 
glories of the heavenly groves. (Draivs the Green 
sprig from the Floral Star, and, holding it up, re- 
turns the Star to the Patron, saying :) This Ever- 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 15 

green, symbolizing Immortality, teaches the lesson 
of Undeviating Sincerity. They whose souls have 
been touched with celestial fire, can know no 
change. Coldness may wound them, but they can- 
not be alienated. Absence only increases their de- 
votion to Him who has won their hearts by His 
divine favor. As from the grave, ofttimes, the 
sweetest floweret springs, so from the anguish of 
death are born the richest proofs of undeviating 
sincerity. In the belief that true love is ever sin- 
cere, and, as an emblem of our faith in a blessed 
immortality, I deposit this emblem of our hope in 
the grave. {Drops the sprig into the grave.) 

Pateon". Sister Electa, select that portion of the 
Star which suggests your particular duty, and 
impart to us its signification. {Handing her the 
Star.) 

Electa. My duty is to point to the rosy tints of 
a brilliant sunrise, as promising a blissful resurrec- 
tion to those who die in the Lord. {Draws the 
Red fioiver from the Floral Star, and, holding it 
up, returns the Star to the Patron, saying :) This 
Eed flower, symbolizing Fervency, teaches the les- 
son of Unfading Beauty. On the banks of the 
pure river of the water of life, clear as crystal, is 
the tree of life, which yieldeth its fruit every 
month. There is no night there, neither sun nor 
moon; for the glory of God doth lighten all the 



16 BURIAI, SEE VICE OF THE 

blissful place. Perfectly beautiful are the faces of 
the redeemed there; for they see the face of God, 
and his name is in their foreheads. In the belief 
that sincere friendship is eternally beautiful, I de- 
posit this memento of our affectionate remem- 
brance with the body of our lameuted sister. 
(Drops the flower into the grave.) 
The W. Matron steps forward, and says : 

Matron. It is a natural wish that flowers should 
spring from the graves of those we love. In Para- 
dise, we believe, they never wither. God has given 
us manifold and wondrous truths in the stars of 
heaven ; but the revelation of his love is not less 
plain in the flowers that are the stars of earth. 
Emblems of our own great resurrection, 
Emblems of the brighter, better land. 

We strew them over the body of our departed 
friend (strewing flotvers), as an apt manifestation of 
our affection, equally of hope and of reliance on 
that beneficence of which they are the eloquent 
impersonation. 

She takes from her bosom a pure white rose, and, hold- 
ing it up, says : 

This white rose, the queen of flowers, the per- 
fection of beauty and fragrance, is, from its spot- 
less purity, a symbol of our belief that there is a 
purer and better state of existence beyond the grave. 
The pall may spread its velvet folds, and the sable 



OEDEK OF THE EASTERN STAR. 17 

plumes bow in stately gloom oyer the dead; but a 
single white rose, drooping amid its verdant foliage, 
speaks of our reliance on the divine promise that 
we shall be like a watered garden, when the bodies 
of those who sleep in the Lord shall come forth 
from the graye radiant in the transfiguration of 
evangelic lustre. Lord of all power and might! 
all Thy works do praise Thee. We give thanks 
unto Thee for Thy great love, and do commend the 
spirit of our departed sister to Thy keeping ; that 
in the final judgment she may stand before Thee 
in glory. 

Presses the flower to her lips, and drops it into the grave, 
saying : 

Until then, beloved, rest in peace ! 

Patron. How instructive are these lessons! 
Love undying and unending, animating hearts 
that are pure and sincere, will inherit the unfading 
beauty of which the Holy Snirit hath spoken. In 
this belief, I deposit what remains of the Floral 
Star in the grave of our deceased sister. (Deposits 
the balance of the Floral Star in the grave.) 
By this event we are reminded of our approaching 
destiny ; how happy, in the hour of dissolving na- 
ture, will be the* inspiring influence of that song 
of triumph — 

O death, where is thy sting ? 
O grave, where is thy victory ? 



18 



BURIAL SERVICE OP THE 



The following, or some other appropriate Hymn, may be 




trod; With its crys - tal tide for - ev - er Flow-ing 

-m — m — m- 




I 1 U -»-5T- 
by the throne of God ? Yes,we'll gather at the riv - er, The 




beau - ti-ful, the beau-ti - ful riv - er— Gath-er with the 

f 2 - 1 ■* m — m m — 




"1 ti" 

saints at the riv - er That flows by the throne of God. 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR. 19 

On the margin of the river, 

Washing up its silver spray, 
We will walk and worship ever, 

All the happy, golden day. — Chorus. 

On the bosom of the river, 
Where the Savior king we own, 

We shall meet and sorrow never 

'Neath the glory of the throne. — Chorus. 

At the smiling of the river, 

Rippling with the Savior's face, 
Saints whom death will never sever, 

Lift their songs of saving grace. — Chorus. 

The duty we owe to the dead is performed. It 
remains that we who are living should so live, and 
by our actions attend the coming of the day of fate, 
that we may neither be surprised nor leave our du- 
ties imperfect, nor our sins uncanceled, nor G-od 
unappeased; but that when our bodies, in their 
turn, descend to their graves, our souls may ascend 
to the regions of eternal light. "Whatever fate is 
to befall us in this world, let the motto of our lives 
be : For the past, Charity ; for the present, Hope ; 
and for the future, Faith. 

Soft and safe, my departed sister, be this thine 
earthly bed! Bright and glorious be thy rising 
from it! Fragrant aud full of delightful perfume 
be the wild flowers that here shall flourish. May 
the earliest buds of spring unfold their beauties 



20 



BURIAL SERVICE OF THE 



orer this thy resting-place, and here may the 
sweetness of the summer's last rose linger longest. 
Though the cold blasts of autumn may lay them 
in the dust, and for a time destroy the loveliness of 
their existence, yet the destruction is not final, and 
in the spring-time they shall surely bloom again. 
So, in the bright morning of the world's resurrec- 
tion, thy mortal frame, now laid in the dust by the 
chilling blast of Death, shall spring again into 
newness of life, and expand in immortal beauty, in 
realms beyond the skies. Until then, dear sister, 
until then, farewell ! 

The following, or some other appropriate Hymn, may be 
sung : 

Hymn. 




E'en though it be a cross, That rais-eth me, 



ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAB.. 



21 



*-& — w~ 
Still, all my song shall be, Near - er, my God, to thee, 




Though like a wanderer, 

Daylight all gone, 
Darkness be over me 

My rest a stone, 
Yet in my dreams I'd be 

Nearer, my God, etc. 

There let the way appear, 

Steps up to heaven; 
All that thou sendest me 

In mercy given, 
Angels to beckon me, 

Nearer, my God, etc. 

A Benediction may be pronounced by the acting Clergy. : 
or the following Prayer, by the Associate Matron, 01 
other person : 

PKAYER. 

Almighty and merciful God, infinite in wisdom 
and goodness, extend to us the riches of Thy ever- 



22 BURIAL SERVICE. 

lasting favor, make us grateful for the benefits we 
enjoy, and crown us with immortal life and honor. 
Thou hast decreed that we all shall die and come 
to dust. Thou hast also decreed that we shall rise 
from death to everlasting life. In that faith may 
we live, ever remembering that here we have no 
abiding-place. In that faith may we die, ever be- 
lieving that when our earthly house is dissolved, 
we shall be welcomed to that glorious mansion, not 
made with hands, eternal in the heavens. Aid 
these mourning friends to feel that the ties of 
kindred, affection, and friendship are not broken 
by death, and that the family in heaven and on 
earth are the same. Forgive our transgressions, 
strengthen us to perform our duties, comfort us in 
our sorrows, and take us at last unto Thyself in 
heaven. Amen. 

Response by the members, 

Amen and Amen. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



027 292 625 6. 







